Letting Go

I recently created this short film for Evolv Sports, journaling Emily Harrington's most difficult ascent to date, "Wacka Flocka" 5.14B, in Rifle, CO. I've begun to treat short videos the the same approach as I do music compositions. No two stories can, nor should be, the same. Each has there own beat, rhythm, leads, and measures, the same as a song. The trick as an editor is to spend enough time with the puzzle to find it's most natural path, knock away a little conventionality, and make it unique in some way. I wanted this piece to feel very human. I began the film with Emily's weaknesses, her obsessive passion, her anger, and her spirit. I find the most unique and authentic statements from an interview can be a foundation for an entire story and opening with that audio can be the most hooking. Making Emily human not only sets the story up for success, but allows the viewer to connect in some way. When the actual climbing footage becomes the least important part of the story, then you have found one. Thanks for following! Cheers _ Andy

Sasha DiGiulian Video Portrait - adidas

I'm so proud of the attention (250K views) and reviews received from the recently released video of Sasha DiGiulian becoming the first American women to climb 9a (5.14d). Keith Ladzinski and I met up with Sasha in early October to make this short film for adidas Outdoor, following her attempts, and progress, on "Pure Imagination"'." Spending that week with Sasha was one I'll never forget. All her effort on the route, all her success, all her talent, and all her beauty, could never overshadow her genuine awesomeness as a person. We had a great week hanging out and shooting together, topped off by her eventual send of the route. Watching history happen from the front row was more than worth the price of admission (free!) and being at the anchors when she clipped them is now a memory that should be able to bring a smile to my face anytime I need to recall it. Thanks everyone for your support and check out the video if you haven't already! Cheers from chilly NH - Andy

Sasha DiGiulian. "Pure Imagination" 5.14d (9a). from