Bozeman-based film comically highlights raw backcountry experiences featuring local athletes
BOZEMAN, Mont. – October has long been the kick-off to pre-ski season stoke fests in mountain towns across the West, with the centerpiece of these celebrations being the classic ski movie. This fall, Bozeman-based film studio Micah Robin Creative will bring a refreshing take on this tradition to frothing skiers and riders everywhere with the release of their 2024 film, “We Are Not Experts,” launching it first at an action-packed premiere in Bozeman.
“We Are Not Experts” follows a crew of Bozeman athletes across two seasons’ worth of attempts at some of the region’s most iconic backcountry lines. Sponsored by Völkl and Baist, the 15-minute film is a much-needed reimagining of the tired tropes of the classic ski movie promoting performance and missions unattainable to most viewers. “We Are Not Experts” celebrates a version of backcountry skiing that most of us experience, defined by (sometimes) comical mishaps, uncooperative weather and conditions, camaraderie, and occasionally that triumphant summit and glorious descent.
The film will be available on digital platforms following its Bozeman premiere. The free premiere event will be hosted by Bozeman coffee shop Roly Poly on Oct. 10 at 6 p.m., featuring live music by Bozeman’s favorite new band Signal Fire, beer from MAP Brewing, and gear giveaways, all leading up to the screening of the ski movie we’ve all been asking for.
Narrated by Bozeman filmmaker Micah Robin (the creator behind “Dotted Lines” and “Means to Ascend”), “We Are Not Experts” stars Völkl athlete Johnny Egan, who’s accompanied on each mission by new ski partners including Anna Fake, Chase Samuels, Sam Egan, Cole Herdman, Jake Burchmore and Nick Westfall. The project features original music by Harlow Punderson of Signal Fire and illustration and design by Bozeman-based artist Madeline Thunder.