Warren Miller’s New Film Explores the Art of Taking a Day Off
The iconic ski film series returns to North American theaters with a focus on downtime.
1Seventy-Seven Years of Tradition
Warren Miller Entertainment continues its long-standing tradition of annual ski films with the release of Days Off. This year, the production shifts its focus from high-octane performance to the personal lives of elite athletes. The film explores how the world's best skiers and snowboarders spend their time when they are not competing.
2New Host Katie Burrell
Comedian and skier Katie Burrell takes the helm as the narrator and host for this year's installment. Burrell guides audiences through various global locations, from backcountry slopes to heli-skiing destinations. Her involvement brings a fresh, unscripted perspective to the series, highlighting the authentic moments that occur between intense professional skiing sessions.
3The Blanket Park Chalet
A central segment of the film features Marty Shaffer, founder of the backcountry company CaPow, at his family's remote cabin in Revelstoke, British Columbia. The A-frame structure, accessible only by helicopter, has been in the Shaffer family since 1986. This location serves as a sanctuary for Shaffer to disconnect from professional chaos.
4Personal Milestones Captured
The filming at Blanket Park Chalet holds deep personal significance for Shaffer and his family. Production occurred just ten days before the birth of his second child, capturing a unique transitional period in his life. This segment emphasizes the film's broader message regarding the importance of relationships and intentional time spent outdoors.
5Global Filming Locations
Beyond the Canadian Rockies, the film features diverse terrain across three continents. Production crews captured footage in the remote backcountry of Alaska, the high-alpine peaks of Chamonix, France, and the legendary powder slopes of Hokkaido, Japan. These locations showcase the global reach of the sport and the varied traditions of mountain culture.
6Diverse Athletic Lineup
The documentary features a wide array of professional athletes, including Sam Kuch, Craig Murray, Jess Kimura, and Ted Ligety. By focusing on these individuals during their downtime, the film reveals the local traditions and personal habits that exist beneath the surface of the professional ski industry, offering fans a rare, intimate look.
7North American Screening Tour
Tickets are currently available for screenings across the United States and Canada, with events scheduled through late December. Many of these screenings include special giveaways and surprise guest appearances. These community-focused events aim to build excitement for the winter season while fostering a sense of connection among local skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.
8Industry and Brand Support
The production of Days Off is supported by several industry partners, including Mammut, Deer Valley, Brooks, and REI Co-op. Produced in collaboration with Outside Studios, the film serves as a reminder of the value of slowing down. It encourages viewers to prioritize rest and nature as essential components of the winter experience.
Original article: Outside — Warren Miller’s New Film Explores the Art of Taking a Day Off