Banff Mountain Film Festival

My foot is fractured; I’m on crutches.  What better way to celebrate than by going to watch films of amazing extreme sports footage and scenery?

If you’ve never been to Banff, or indeed you’ve never even heard of Banff, it’s a big town in the Rockies in Canada, and as such draws many a crazy mountain sport enthusiast to its slopes, crags and peaks. So really, what better place to stage a film festival that focuses on action and adventure sports? 

The Banff Mountain Film Festival tours all over the world, and has been running since 1975.  The festival itself happens in Banff (not surprisingly) in November, and from there the best films are toured through 30 countries and shown off to the world. However, this year will only be the second year of the UK-wide tour.

So what are the films all about? 

Well, they are a collection of action-inspired sports from all over the world, showing off both skill and scenery magnificently. Some of the most jaw-droppingly scary extreme sports have been captured wonderfully on film, all set to the backdrop of amazing mountains, deserts, forests, rivers and seas from all over the planet. It is also an exploration and celebration of culture; some gorgeously colourful footage of the world’s local customs has also been captured. 

The film festival comes to London from February 8 to 10 (for other UK locations and dates have a look at the website), taking place at the Union Chapel in Islington. Films start at 7.30pm; doors open at 6.30pm for drinks. Tickets are £12. 

February 10 has different films to February 8 and 9, so if you’re feeling seriously inspired then you can go to both sets. Among the films of the nights are kayaking between Australia and New Zealand, free climbing, BASE jumping, alpine skiing and the long walk from Beijing to Urumqi. And all look fantastic.

All in all this promises to be a seriously cool few nights, ones that might inspire you to new challenges or perhaps just put you in awe of the almost superhuman feats of achievement. Not to be missed, but the shows usually sell out, so get yours booked.

The Banff Mountain Film Festival takes place on February 8 to 10 at:

Union Chapel
Compton Terrace
Islington
N1 2XD

 Tel: 020 7226 3750