Nell: Aspen’s extremes

Thank you to Aspen Chamber Resort Association and Aspen Film for the annual screening of Aspen Extreme. A ski movie, a cult classic, or perhaps a cautionary tale?

I’ll admit, despite living in Aspen most of my life, I had never seen it until last night. Eager to take in the vintage ski outfits and the 90s footage of town, I cozied up at Aspen’s Isis Theater, ready for a trip down memory lane.

But it didn’t take long for me to realize that Aspen Extreme is more than that. It should be part of a mandatory introduction package for all newcomers — whether ski-bum hopefuls, experienced powder hounds, or J-1 visa holders. The movie shows you the possibilities of Aspen life: you can enjoy the company of rich, beautiful people (men and women alike), dine on gourmet food or sip champagne at someone else’s expense, push your physical limits, and fall in love. You can have it all.

But as the film shows, the path you choose and the extremes you embrace can have their consequences. Our town embodies it all: the wild parties and the athletic pursuits, the opulence and the struggles, the fun and the excess, life and death. Let this movie serve as a reminder: you can choose your Aspen, every day.

So, are you going to be a Dex or a TJ? Watch the film and remember — both extremes are possible. Choose wisely.

Stephanie Nell

Aspen