Mountains of the Moon: A Cinematic Journey of Art, Sports, and Music
Chris Benchetler, a multi-talented individual known for his prowess in sports, filmmaking, and art, presents a new cinematic venture titled Mountains of the Moon. This unique theatrical experience is a visual journey inspired by extreme sports and set to the iconic music of the Grateful Dead. The film showcases breathtaking landscapes, from snow-covered peaks to flowing rivers and the vast ocean, all captured under the night sky. Through the use of skeletal suits worn by top athletes, the film aims to convey the message that beneath our exterior, we are all connected by our shared humanity. The official movie trailer was released on Oct. 30, with the global theatrical release scheduled for Nov. 14.
Mountains of the Moon combines cutting-edge cinematography techniques, including lasers, animation, and projection mapping, to showcase a diverse range of extreme sports such as snowboarding, biking, surfing, and climbing. The film celebrates the universal bond that unites us through shared experiences, much like the sense of community found at a Grateful Dead concert. Chris Benchetler describes the film as an artistic exploration where light serves as his paintbrush and the Earth as his canvas. By transcending the limitations of daylight, the film captures the essence of emotion, energy, and movement, blending sports, art, music, and nature to create a profound sensory experience that transcends language.
Mickey Hart, a member of the Grateful Dead, reflects on the project's collaboration with Mountains of the Moon, highlighting the shared ethos of exploration and creativity that defines both the film and the band's music. The project aims to push creative boundaries and illuminate the deep connection between art, nature, and human expression. The film is just one component of a larger artistic endeavor, which includes a forthcoming book featuring photographs, concepts, and paintings that further explore the themes of universal language and interconnectedness. The book and official merchandise will be available on Nov. 13 through Chris Benchetler's website.
In addition to the film and book release, an art gallery event titled "Mountains of the Moon: A Cinematic Experience" will be held in Los Angeles from Nov. 15-23. This event invites fans of the Grateful Dead's music and extreme sports to experience another facet of Chris Benchetler's artistic vision. For tickets and more information, visit the official website. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Mountains of the Moon and discover the profound connection between art, nature, and human expression. Watch the trailer and let the light guide you on this extraordinary journey.