Chris Benchetler Releases Long-Awaited "Mountains of the Moon" Trailer

Featured Image: Cody Mathison | Skier: Chris Benchetler

When creative mastermind Chris Benchetler started dropping episodes of his “Ship of Fools” YouTube series last February, we knew he was cooking up something extra-special. It turns out those behind-the-scenes glimpses into the ingenuity (and chaos) that went into the nighttime-based shooting of his newest film project, “Mountains of the Moon,” were just an appetizer for his latest artistic entrée. 

“Mountains of the Moon” is an artistic journey where light became my paintbrush and the Earth our canvas,” said Benchetler. By choosing to film after dark, the crew was able to custom-light the various outdoor adventure sports they captured, resulting in numerous mind-melting segments.

You're not dreaming, that's Benchetler gapping over Mickey Hart | Photo: Aaron Blatt

Benchetler sinks into a psychedelic pow turn (left) and the crew heads up for another lap (right)

With backcountry lines lit by lasers, projection mapping illuminating entire landscapes and light-up skeleton suits worn by athletes—all set to the timeless pulse of the Grateful Dead’s music—Benchetler’s latest film promises to be a full sensory experience, especially if you can attend one of the big screen theatrical showings that kick off in Los Angeles on November 14th.

Outside the theater, the magic will continue with an accompanying week-long (November 15-23) immersive art exhibit in L.A., a collector’s book and limited-edition gear collabs with Arc’teryx, Atomic, Dragon and SIMMS. A digital rollout is scheduled to follow in early 2026.

This trippy film is narrated by mushroom guru Paul Stamets and features, among others, skier Michelle Parker, surfer Rob Machado and mountain biker Carson Storch. Grateful Dead percussionist Mickey Hart even makes an appearance, drumming atop a snow sculpture at Mammoth Mountain.

Hart summed up this project by saying, “The music of the Grateful Dead has always been about exploration—of sound, spirit and the unknown. 'Mountains of the Moon' taps into that same energy, pushing creative boundaries to illuminate the deep connection between art, nature and human expression.” 

So strap in and prepare your mind for expansion with Bentchetler’s latest unhinged creation.

From YouTube:

Without darkness, we cannot see the light.

In Mountains of the Moon, world renowned artist and skier, Chris Benchetler explores the unseen connections between sport, life, music, and the living earth—set to the timeless tunes of the Grateful Dead.

Captured almost entirely at night using cutting-edge cinematography, lasers, animation, and projection mapping, the film leads viewers on a surreal journey through ocean, river, and mountain landscapes. The world’s greatest athletes, adventurers, and thinkers appear as luminous figures, navigating through the natural world.

At its core, the film reflects on what makes us human. The glowing skeletons represent the essential truth of our existence, the light within us all no matter our external differences. Through their journey, the film reflects on life and death, the resilience of nature, and the threads of humanity that bind us together.

Narrated by: Paul Stamets

Featuring: Chris Benchetler, Mickey Hart, Rob Machado, Michelle Parker, Sam Kuch, Elena Hight, Danny Davis, Dennis Ranalter, Alannah Yip, Hamish McArthur, Sam Stroh, Carson Storch, Hannah Bergemann, Ryan Howard, Casey Brown, Peter Benchetler, Tom Balfour, and Kimi Werner

In Loving Memory of: Bill Walton & Michael Gardner

Join Chris and the Mountains of the Moon team:

World Premiere + Exhibit :: Santa Monica, Los Angeles, November 15-23

Theatrical Release :: In select theaters from November 14

Additional Events + Screenings