Liminal

Keeping the Dream Alive

Renowned snowboarder Jake Blauvelt approached me and winter filmmaker Liam Gallagher about creating a hybrid snowboard film and documentary for The North Face. After decades of big mountain riding worldwide—and multiple knee injuries—Jake had endured countless hospital visits and cortisone shots. With his future uncertain, he set his sights on filming at Mt. Baker in Washington State.

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My Role & Timeline

Co-director and cinematographer for 6 months.

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The Challenge

Jake had built one of the most celebrated careers in snowboarding, from Forum Snowboards’ golden era to his own films with Oakley, The North Face, and Ride. But his injuries posed a daunting hurdle. He wanted to continue riding and creating films while his body still allowed—leveraging his unmatched mountain knowledge, style, and production experience before the window closed.

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Back in the Backcountry

We began by filming Jake’s cortisone treatments at a sports hospital in Killington, Vermont, then headed west to Mt. Baker.

For two months, we based out of Glacier, Washington, exploring the backcountry with Jake, his rising-star nephew Mason Lemery, and a crew of local riders. Each day meant long hikes to scout lines and build jumps, while Liam and I captured the action on RED Komodos.

Later that year, we filmed quieter moments with Jake and his family on their farm in Vermont’s Green Mountains, adding depth and intimacy to the film.

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Premiere & Impact‍

Despite Jake’s struggles, we captured enough to craft a 15-minute snowboard film and documentary. It premiered simultaneously in Stowe, Vermont, and Bellingham, Washington, followed by a global digital release with The North Face. The film was warmly received by fans and riders worldwide who had followed Jake’s career for over 20 years.

Later that year, I collaborated with our photographer, Colin Wiseman, on a print book with photography we both shot throughout the production.

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Key Takeaways

Having spent years filming backcountry projects in Washington, this was a return to one of my favorite landscapes. Working with Jake was unforgettable—he’s one of the kindest people I’ve ever collaborated with. My biggest takeaway was a reminder to appreciate every moment: a life in snowboarding is incredible, but it comes with a heavy physical cost.

Client Background

The North Face is an American outdoor recreation products company. The North Face produces outdoor clothing, footwear, and related equipment.