Presenting My Films at Kendal Mountain Festival
In November 2023, I had THREE of my films selected to screen at Kendal Mountain Festival in the UK.
This is the story of how that experience went for me…
The Kendal Mountain Festival is an annual celebration of outdoor adventure, exploration, and the spirit of pushing boundaries. This year, I had the incredible opportunity to showcase three of my outdoor adventure films - “The Summit Within,” “Canopy Climbers,” and “The Unseen Peaks.”
Because this was the largest film festival I got to attend in-person, I wanted to write a bit about what the experience was like, in addition to what you may see in the video above. In this blog post, I will take you on a journey through the festival, sharing the behind-the-scenes moments, the audience reactions, and the profound impact these films had on both myself and the viewers…
The Summit Within:
The first film, "The Summit Within," documents the story of group of veterans using nature as a powerful form of recovery. The film not only captures the breathtaking landscapes these veterans explore in the Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado but also delves into the transformative power of outdoor adventures. The screening at Kendal Mountain Festival was a moment of pride and reflection for me. The audience's reaction was palpable as they immersed themselves in the veterans' journey, experiencing the healing power of nature alongside them.
As I stood on stage during the Q&A session with the executive producers Levison Wood, Dave Luke and producer Evangeline Modell, the questions from the audience ranged from inquiries about the filmmaking process to heartfelt expressions of gratitude from individuals who resonated with the film's message. It was a reminder that outdoor adventure films can be a conduit for shared experiences, fostering a sense of community and understanding.
Canopy Climbers:
The second film, "Canopy Climbers," takes us to the lush rainforests of Costa Rica, where a group of tree climbers is pushing the limits of physically demanding tree climbing. More than just an adrenaline-fueled adventure, this film highlights the importance of environmental education and the connection between humans and their natural surroundings.
The Kendal audience was captivated by the sheer audacity of the climbers and inspired by their dedication to fostering a deeper understanding of the local forest.
During the festival, I had the pleasure of engaging with audience members who were eager to learn more about the tree climbers' unique approach to environmental education. I also got to speak on one of the biggest stages of my career following a few British Olympic climber’s discuss their recent competitions. The film sparked a lot of conversations over the weekend about the intersection of adventure and conservation, demonstrating the potential for outdoor films to ignite a passion for protecting our planet.
The Unseen Peaks:
The third film, "The Unseen Peaks," introduces us to a remarkable outdoor athlete named Addie who defies expectations—Addie, who is blind, uses ice climbing, rock climbing, and skiing to find freedom and acceptance in the outdoors. This film is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the ability to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges. The screening at Kendal Mountain Festival was a poignant moment, highlighting the universal nature of the human experience.
I didn’t end up presenting at the festival because after three separate talks promoting my other films, I just wanted to enjoy the short amount of time I had in Kendal. So, I went hiking instead :) Even on this big exciting work trips, I still need to find time to relax and unwind and after dozens of meetings with distributors, filmmakers, audiences and film fanatics, I needed to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the weekend.
Behind the Scenes:
Presenting at Kendal Mountain Festival was not just about the on-screen magic—it was an immersive experience that extended beyond the films themselves. The festival's vibrant atmosphere, filled with like-minded outdoor enthusiasts, filmmakers, and adventurers, created a sense of camaraderie that amplified the impact of the screenings.
Backstage, I had the privilege of connecting with fellow filmmakers, sharing stories of challenges and triumphs in the pursuit of capturing the essence of outdoor adventure. The festival provided a platform for networking, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas, reinforcing the importance of a united front in advocating for the preservation of wild spaces and the celebration of human achievement in the outdoors.
Impact on the Audience:
One of the most gratifying aspects of presenting at Kendal Mountain Festival was witnessing the profound impact the films had on the audience. The post-screening discussions were a testament to the power of storytelling to evoke emotions, spark conversations, and inspire action. Viewers left the theater not only entertained but also with a renewed sense of purpose and connection to the natural world.
Audience members approached me with stories of personal transformation, expressing how the films had resonated with their own experiences of overcoming challenges and finding solace in outdoor pursuits. It became clear that the films had transcended entertainment, becoming a source of inspiration and empowerment for those seeking their own "summit within."
The Future of Outdoor Adventure Filmmaking:
As I reflect on my experience at Kendal Mountain Festival, I am filled with optimism about the future of outdoor adventure filmmaking. The festival serves as a testament to the growing appetite for stories that go beyond the surface, exploring the human spirit, our connection to nature, and the boundless possibilities that unfold when we step outside our comfort zones.
The success of films like "The Summit Within," "Canopy Climbers," and "The Unseen Peaks" at Kendal underscores the importance of diverse narratives in outdoor filmmaking. By showcasing stories of recovery, environmental stewardship, and inclusivity, these films contribute to a richer tapestry that reflects the multifaceted nature of the outdoor community.
As filmmakers, we have a responsibility to not only entertain but also to inspire, educate, and advocate for the preservation of our planet. Kendal Mountain Festival provides a platform for filmmakers to amplify their voices and contribute to the ongoing dialogue about the role of adventure in shaping a better, more connected world.
What I’m going to take away from this experience:
Presenting at Kendal Mountain Festival this year was an unforgettable journey—an exploration of captivating stories, shared experiences, and the undeniable impact of outdoor adventure filmmaking. Through "The Summit Within," "Canopy Climbers," and "The Unseen Peaks," I had the privilege of taking the audience on a rollercoaster of emotions, sparking conversations, and leaving a lasting imprint on the collective consciousness of the outdoor community.
As the festival came to a close, I left Kendal with a renewed sense of purpose and a deep appreciation for the power of storytelling. The adventure doesn't end with the closing credits—it continues in the hearts and minds of those who were moved by the films. Kendal Mountain Festival has not only solidified its place as a premier showcase for outdoor adventure films but has also become a catalyst for change, inspiring a new generation of storytellers to push the boundaries and explore the uncharted territories of the human experience in the great outdoors.
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Roo is a commercial/documentary filmmaker and photographer based in Boulder, Colorado but travels all around the world for his filmmaking career. He has directed documentaries for Patagonia in California, produced films for Outside Magazine throughout Europe and Africa, camera operated for Netflix in the Rocky Mountain West, photographed among indigenous communities in South America, and has received notable recognition in his hometown of Orcas Island in Washington State for his work telling uplifting stories in the outdoor space.
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