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Backyards Project

Backyards Project poster

Backyards Project

201646

Where to Watch Backyards Project

Backyards Project, released in 2016, spotlights the exceptional capabilities of professional skier Sam Favret alongside a thrilling exploration of the landscapes he intimately knows. Directed by PVS Company, the fifty-minute documentary has transformed the nondescript snowy ranges into a fascinating scenic marvel coupled with astronomical-skills level free-skiing.

The film opens with Chamonix, a quaint mountain town situated between the towering peaks of the French Alps. This is Favret's hometown, and the film’s initial striking imagery illustrates its mesmerising, almost supernatural beauty. Chamonix, as breathtakingly stunning as it is, also poses significant challenges because of its rugged alpine terrain. However, Favret appears to feel at home, bounding fearlessly across cliffs and crevasses, leaving viewers marveling at his incredible speed, artistry, and daring maneuvers.

The narrative of Backyards Project unfolds through Favret's perspective, allowing the audience to understand the world through his lens. His narration is an intriguing mix of personal recounts, regional lore, and discussions about skiing and the mountain life – a testament to his enduring passion for these snowy landscapes and the sport. He takes viewers on an adrenaline-packed journey across these snowy terrains, his performance echoing the rhythmic dance of his skis on the virgin slopes.

The title of the film, Backyards Project, provides a hint towards the essence of the film. Quite literally, Favret pushes his limits within the confined space of his ‘backyard’ - Chamonix. By subverting traditional notions of backyard play, Favret and PVS Company make a bold statement about the extremes that lie in one's comfort zone. Favret showcases his skills in the terrain park and backcountry, highlighting his impressive array of agility in various conditions from deep powder to hardpack, carving graceful lines on snowy faces and executing highly technical tricks.

The film also adopts a unique cinematographic approach, seamlessly mixing high-speed action shots, wide aerial views, close-ups, and slow-motion sequences. The camera depicts every detail, capturing an almost dream-like quality. The piste's microscopic slivers of ice and the explosive flow of cascading snow during a jump encapsulate a visual wonder amplifying the overall viewing experience.

The aesthetic strength of Backyards Project is undeniably its scenery. The breathtaking visuals, coupled with an immersive original soundtrack, shape a distinctive atmosphere that elevates the film beyond a mere catalogue of impressive stunts. A particularly memorable sequence involves Favret skiing down a slope in the dark, illuminated solely by multi-coloured flares affixed to his skis - a scene that is mystically enchanting and reminiscent of a mesmerizing dance of lights.

The film extends beyond the action to provide an intimate insight into Favret’s life, ethos, and nature infused lifestyle. While strongly focusing on his audacious exploits on the ski slopes, it also unravels glimpses into his humble passion for the outdoor life, his respect for the terrain, and his commitment to honing his skills. It underscores Favret's interpretation of freedom embedded in his sport, highlighting his simplistic and holistic approach towards life.

Moreover, subtle environmental themes run through the film. The intricate relationship between the skier and his environment reveals the grandeur of the Alpine landscapes and their delicate balance. There are haunting, ethereal shots of glacial bodies, which serve as a poignant reminder of the impact of climate change on these pristine ecosystems.

Backyards Project, in conclusion, is an enticing blend of heart-stopping action, engaging storytelling, breath-taking cinematography, and personal insight into Favret’s life. The film celebrates the sport of free-skiing with its adrenaline-infused sequences, whilst also serving as a captivating testament to Favret's boundless talent. It’s a must-watch for any sports enthusiast, nature lover, or anyone looking for a dose of vicarious thrill.

201646
Director
Antoine FRIOUX / Alexis BLAISE / Maxime MOULIN
Stars
Sam Favret
Genres
Documentary