A Memorable Journey to JHiFF: Reflections from Director Ben Sturgulewski
Attending the Jackson Hole International Film Festival (JHiFF) with our feature documentary Champions of the Golden Valley was an experience we’ll never forget. From the warm welcome to the enthusiastic audience, everything about the festival was top-notch and made our journey unforgettable.
Our team—me, my producer, and our main subject—traveled far to be there. Alishah, our lead subject, came all the way from Afghanistan via Germany. His first moments in Jackson, walking through the iconic antler arch at the airport in gently falling snow, were magical and set the tone for the days ahead.
We were warmly greeted by Lucas, who became our go-to guide for everything Jackson. He was incredibly kind, ensuring we were comfortable and well-acquainted with the town. Our accommodations at The Cloudveil Hotel were nothing short of spectacular. It was the best festival lodging I’ve ever experienced, and it felt like stepping into a holiday wonderland—a perfect pre-Christmas treat for our team.
After settling in, we headed to the high school for our screening. The heavily falling snow outside created the perfect ambiance for our film, which is set in the winter mountains of Afghanistan. The community showed up in force, and their excitement was palpable. The audience’s enthusiasm—cheering, clapping, and engaging—was deeply gratifying. The Q&A session afterward, expertly moderated by Artistic Director David Nugent, allowed us to connect even more with this wonderful mountain community. Conversations with audience members and JHiFF board members extended well into the evening, culminating in a lively after-party at a local pizza joint. The camaraderie and energy were unmatched, making it a night to remember.
The next morning, we swapped cinema seats for ski boots. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort had been blessed with nearly a foot of fresh powder, and the festival treated us to tickets and skis. It was a dream day on the slopes, sharing runs with board members and new friends. For Alishah, who hadn’t skied in three years, the experience was nothing short of magical. The day will undoubtedly be a cherished memory for him and for all of us.
After skiing, we hurried back to town for one last screening: The Groove Under the Groove, a beautiful music documentary. Meeting the talented team behind the film and sharing in their passion was the perfect way to round out the festival.
As we departed Jackson the following morning, with another snowstorm rolling in, we were reluctant to leave. The warmth of the people, the grandeur of the mountains, and the exceptional festival organization left us with full hearts and unforgettable memories. JHiFF is a truly unique film festival, blending world-class films with the stunning backdrop of the Tetons and the vibrant culture of Jackson Hole.
A heartfelt thank-you to Christy, Casey, David, Lucas, the board members, and everyone else who made JHiFF such an extraordinary event. Your dedication and passion shine through, and we can’t wait to return. JHiFF is undoubtedly destined for incredible things, and we’re thrilled to be part of its story. Until next time, Jackson!