Watch Dear Rider

Dear Rider is an emotional documentary film that takes the audiences on a journey through the world of snowboarding while shining a spotlight on the life and legacy of Jake Burton Carpenter, the man who revolutionized the industry and paved the way for the sport's success today. Directed by Justin Hostynek, the film features interviews with people close to Jake, including his wife Donna Carpenter, and notable snowboarders like Kelly Clark, who share insights into who Jake was, what he stood for, and how he changed their lives.

The film is structured around the letters that Jake wrote to his riders, which the film's title alludes to. These messages were essential in shaping the brand and culture that Burton Snowboards is known for today. The letters are interspersed throughout the film and provide a poignant commentary on the various themes presented. From the early days of the sport's inception, when the snowboarding was seen as a rebel activity and a way to escape the conformity and elitism of skiing, to the present-day, when snowboarding has become mainstream and even been added to the Olympics.

Dear Rider is a love letter to snowboarding and the community that surrounds it. It features some of the most stunning and adrenaline-inducing snowboarding footage ever captured, from riders pushing the limits in the backcountry to snowboard half-pipe competitions at the X Games.

The film also delves into Jake's personal life, his struggles with cancer, and his tragic death in 2019. Despite his meteoric rise to success, Jake remained humble, preferring to be known for his love of snowboarding, his dedication to his family, and his commitment to creating a culture of inclusivity and respect. The film is a tribute to his life and legacy, showcasing the impact he had on the sport and the people he touched along the way.

The documentary highlights the diversity of the snowboarding community, featuring riders from different backgrounds and experiences. From the first-generation riders who were considered outcasts, to the next generation of snowboarders who are pushing the limits of the sport and finding new ways to express themselves through snowboarding, the film celebrates the sense of community that brings these individuals together.

As the film winds its way through the different stages of snowboarding's evolution, it becomes apparent that Jake's vision for the sport was not just about innovation or pushing the boundaries of what was possible. It was also about creating a family of like-minded individuals who shared a ion for snowboarding and who could come together to celebrate it. The film is a testament to the power of that community, the shared experiences that it fosters, and the deep connections that can be forged through a love of snowboarding.

Overall, Dear Rider is a stirring tribute to Jake Burton Carpenter and the snowboarding community he helped create. While it may be a bit too insider-baseball for those unfamiliar with the sport or those who don't share a ion for it, the film is nonetheless an exhilarating and insightful exploration of the ride and life of a man whose impact on the sport of snowboarding is undeniable. If you're a fan of snowboarding or just looking for a film that will inspire, entertain, and provoke thoughtful reflection, then Dear Rider is a must-see documentary.