Featured Image: Jérôme Tanon, Christoph Thoresen | Skier: Markus Eder

Haines, Alaska, has long been known as a mecca in the world of freeride. Marshmallow spines cascading from the heavens offer a blank canvas for the best skiers and snowboarders in the world. But while the natural beauty of Haines is undeniably attractive, it can be an area riddled with danger. “Circle of Madness” is a dive into that lifestyle or risk and reward, following two masters of their crafts, Markus Eder and Victor de Le Rue. As a skier and snowboarder duo, each carries a unique view of the mountain that has been refined over their storied careers.

“Circle of Madness” is more than your typical Alaskan powder montage, and this was certainly recognized at award ceremonies this fall. The project was awarded Film of the Year at the 2024 International Freeski Film Festival (iF3). In addition, Eder took home Standout Male Skier of the Year and Best Backcountry Segment at iF3.

Christoph Thoresen, Jérôme Tanon and Scott Gaffney did a remarkable job behind the lens capturing this mind-bending journey. There’s no understating the amount of effort that went into this 50-minute movie, and that work is well-reflected in the final project. If you only watch one ski film this year, “Circle of Madness” would be a damn good pick. Congrats to the whole crew for bringing this beast to life. Be sure to check out the immersive photo gallery below.

From YouTube:

“Circle of Madness” a film by Christoph Thoresen, follows Markus Eder and Victor de Le Rue as they return to the legendary spine walls of Haines, Alaska, to explore unknown territory in sport—and friendship.

Supported by THE NORTH FACE, ALPINA, YETI, SMARTWOOL

Watch now and find a screening near you: https://www.thenorthface.co.uk/en-gb/…

Photo Gallery

Images: Jérôme Tanon, Christoph Thoresen | Riders: Markus Eder, Victor de Le Rue

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