The Ski Bum
The Ski Bum

Movie spotlight

The Ski Bum

1971
Movie
95 min
English

A ski instructor tries to teach a bunch of insanely eccentric people how to ski while dealing with everyone wanting his attention.

Insights

IMDb5.8/10
Director: Mark HaggardGenres: Drama, Sport

Plot Summary

A world-weary ski instructor named Hank grappling with his past finds himself drawn into a complex relationship with a beautiful woman. As he tries to escape his demons, he becomes entangled in a local rivalry and the intense world of professional skiing. The film explores themes of redemption, love, and the allure of the mountain lifestyle.

Critical Reception

The Ski Bum received a mixed reception upon its release. While some critics praised its scenic cinematography and the performances of its lead actors, particularly James Coburn, others found the plot to be somewhat predictable and underdeveloped. Audience reception was similarly varied, with some appreciating the ski sequences and romantic elements, while others were less enthralled by the dramatic aspects.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its stunning mountain scenery and James Coburn's charismatic performance.

  • Criticized for a somewhat meandering plot and lack of narrative depth.

  • Appreciated for its depiction of the ski culture and romantic undertones.

Google audience: Audience reviews are scarce and varied, with some viewers enjoying the film's aesthetic appeal and the chemistry between the leads, while others found the story lacking in excitement or emotional resonance.

Fun Fact

The film was shot on location in Aspen, Colorado, showcasing some of the era's most popular ski resorts.

AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources

My Review