SNOW FILM FEST at Kynžvart Castle

Description

Every year from October to December, SNOW FILM FEST brings the best films about winter sports from around the world and local productions to over 150 cities in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. You can regularly look forward to a feature-length program of top films about extreme skiing, winter climbing, snowboarding, snow-kiting, and other winter fun. SNOW FILM FEST is the winter brother of a similar festival, Expediční kamery, and together they are by far the largest event of its kind in our country. The history of the SNOW FILM FEST has been ongoing in the Czech Republic since 2011. At that time, we called it the Winter Sports Film Festival. Over the years, the festival has grown significantly, regularly attracting 25,000 paying viewers. Do you have a question about the festival or want to become an organizer? Write to us at info@expedicnikamera.cz ANNOTATION TO FILMS - SNOW FILM FEST 2026 MINUS 103 DEGREES - mandatory film Country of origin: Germany Duration: 14 min Directed by: Feline Gerhardt Language: English (Czech subtitles) On February 19, 2023, German climber Jost Kobusch made history by becoming the first to solo summit Denali (6,190 meters) in winter. He reached the summit via the Messner Couloir, becoming the first climber to successfully complete this route in winter during a solo ascent. For over 35 hours, he endured extreme cold and isolation, moving with precision and patience in one of the most unforgiving environments in the world. COLD HEAD AND HEART - mandatory film Country of origin: France Duration: 35 min Directed by: Alex Heitler Language: French (Czech subtitles) After his fourth victory at the Freeride World Tour, Victor de Le Rue returns to the mountains where he feels most alive. This intimate film, narrated by his inner voice, captures the journey of a top freerider seeking balance between adrenaline and family, ambition and calm, fear and obsession. Without interviews and ostentation, it offers a sincere dialogue between a person and the mountains. Amid breathtaking descents and the raw beauty of nature, it reveals not only the desire to push personal boundaries but also the vulnerability behind every decision. A powerful visual portrait of passion, courage, and the search for what it means to live fully. HUNGRY GRAVITY - mandatory film Country of origin: Austria Duration: 17 min Directed by: Bernhard Braun Language: English (Czech subtitles) Freerider Bernhard Braun takes viewers on a humorous journey through the Austrian Alps to the summit of Albonakopf. Along the way, he grapples not only with the pronunciation of English but also with the pressures of the modern ski film industry. What actually makes a good story? Is it not enough to just watch beautiful skiing? In his search for the perfect powder slope, Bernhard comes to a deeper understanding: skiing is not just about action – it’s about attitude, etiquette, and life itself. Ultimately, he realizes a simple truth: you cannot win without losing. The film is Bernhard's very personal reflection on his career – deep, sincere, and full of breathtaking shots from the Tyrolean and Vorarlberg Alps. ICE BUILDERS - mandatory film Country of origin: Italy Duration: 15 min Directed by: Francesco Clerici, Tommaso Barbaro Language: English (Czech subtitles) In the Himalayas, in the remote high-altitude desert valley of Zanskar, located at an altitude between 3,000 and 7,000 meters, local residents have always depended on glaciers, which (when they melt in spring) provide water essential for agriculture and life. However, in recent decades, the situation has changed. Rising temperatures have caused glacier retreat and water shortages, leading to the disappearance of many villages. Today, in an uneven fight against climate change, the residents of Ladakh are building artificial glaciers, combining traditional techniques with modern methods to address spring water shortages and contribute to groundwater replenishment. ICE CRAZIES - mandatory film Country of origin: Canada Duration: 15 min Directed by: Teegan Neame, Katie Tozer Language: English (Czech subtitles) The very first film about river surfing in Alberta, which looks into the lives of two surfers living inland who combat winter depression through the harsh intensity of surfing in cold water. The film takes place on the ice-cold rivers of Alberta fed by glaciers and follows their journey as they seek comfort, adrenaline, and connection in one of the most unlikely surf spots on Earth. As temperatures drop, their bond deepens, proving that friendship, resilience, and a shared love for the waves can carry you through even the coldest seasons. The film tells a powerful story about mental health, extreme sports, and finding warmth in unexpected places. ONCE IN A LIFETIME - mandatory film Country of origin: France Duration: 44 min Directed by: Jérôme Tanon Language: English, French (Czech subtitles) The film is a celebration of discovery, adventure, and passing the torch to the next generation against the backdrop of Antarctica. It documents the journey of the famous De Le Rue family as Xavier, Victor, and eighteen-year-old Mila sail across the Drake Passage to ski down the steep, icy slopes of the White Continent. Mila's initiation into freeriding in the high mountains is captured through personal diaries that show her growth as she faces her fears and embraces the challenge. IN THE SERVICE OF THE MOUNTAINS - optional film Country of origin: Czech Republic Duration: 51 min Directed by: Martin Vrbický Language: Czech The Mountain Rescue Service celebrates its ninetieth anniversary since its founding. To commemorate its rich history, commendable significance, and deep understanding of the mountains and their dangers, director Martin Vrbický has created an epic time-lapse documentary. Through magnificent shots, you will see all the Czech mountain ranges where the mountain rescue service operates throughout the seasons. The dangers of the mountains are illustrated by the most legendary rescue operations recounted by witnesses. You will also learn about the special technical equipment that the Mountain Rescue Service has available today.

Highlights

• Showcasing top winter sports films
• Running from October to December
• Attracts over 25,000 viewers annually

General Information

SNOW FILM FEST at Kynžvart Castle features the best films about winter sports from around the world. This annual event, running from October to December, has been a staple in the Czech Republic since 2011, drawing large audiences with its thrilling programs.

Location

Lázně Kynžvart, 354 91 Lázně Kynžvart, Czech Republic

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