'The Art of Flight is bigger than snowboarding.' Can the largest, most expensive, most heavily produced action sports movie of all time be summed up in one catchall phrase? Maybe not, but these words should be kept in mind when discussing AOF. And it will be discussed, as the world premiere just kicked off and the film will be making a stop in what seems like every major city and mountain town soon enough. The phrase explains a lot on many different levels.

You had to fight your way through this to get in.

Last night, September 7, New York City hosted the world premiere of the most anticipated snowboard film of the last two years. Brought to life by Red Bull and Quiksilver, to say it was a massive undertaking is an understatement. The glitz, the glamour, the red carpets, every pro featured in the movie, every person that worked their ass off behind the scenes, autographs, thousands of people, afterparties in exclusive clubs with open bars and miniramps built just for the occasion...it all there happened. And that was just the beginning.

As of now, The Art of Flight is available for purchase on iTunes. So, the big question: "should I buy it?"

The answer is "yes", but don't watch it...yet. On your laptop or home entertainment system is not how AOF is meant to be enjoyed, at least not your first viewing. It should be watched in Dolby surround sound, on a 20-ft screen, with Travis Rice and super models hooting at the screen. If AOF is premiering anywhere within a two-hour drive of your residence, hold off and let that ‘in the flesh' experience pop your cherry.

Curt Morgan, paparazzi-style.

The scene out front of New York's Beacon Theatre was chaotic and unlike any other film premiere in snowboard history. A 100-foot long media gauntlet greeted riders as international media grilled them. As the night kicked off it was Push.ca's own Peter Andersen that took stage to host this monumental event. He called the riders to the stage as the brains - Brainfarm's Curt Morgan - and the brawn - Travis Rice - addressed the crowds over the stoked screams of excitement. It was then time for the action.

"So Pete, why can't you write an Art Of Flight story for us?"
"I'm busy."
Push.ca's Peter Andersen, hosting the premiere.

Remember, The Art of Flight is bigger than snowboarding. It isn't meant for snowboard geeks who can appreciate the technical aspects of a switch backlip through a kinked rail. It is meant to blow minds with its cinematography and exotic locations. It is meant to impress your mom and your 20 buddies that have no idea what snowboarding is about. It is to snowboarding what The Endless Summer is to surfing: wowing audiences that will never wash dishes for a season in a mountain town just to ride waist deep snow every morning.

(keep reading for more on Art Of Flight)