Kino Wengen "Ski Crazy"

Historic Breakthrough Evening at Wengen Kino
DHO member Hawley MacLean has asked us to share details of a special evening planned at the Wengen Kino on December 19 2025, from 20.30h.
The centrepiece of the evening is a free showing of Ski Crazy, which Hawley describes as the first full-length color ski movie ever made.

Shot in 1954 across Alta, Utah, Lake Tahoe, Nevada and Los Angeles, California, this comedy launched a new era in ski filmmaking, he adds.
Produced and directed by his father, Gordon MacLean, Ski Crazy premiered worldwide in 1955 and featured a lineup of Olympic skiers from the USA and Canada.
Meet the stars
Long before becoming a Hollywood actor (and later starring on TV in Combat!), Pierre Jalbert lit up the slopes in Ski Crazy. A graceful skier from Quebec’s national programme, Jalbert brought elegance, humor, and international flair to the film.
John Ferraro, the villain of the piece
John Ferraro was an All-American on and off the football field. The man who played offensive and defensive tackle for the USC Trojans in three Rose Bowl Games also served his country as a naval officer in World War II. He was also the longest-serving member of the Los Angeles city council.
Ted Johnson
Ted Johnson, a pioneer of the modern ski industry, and founder of Snowbird, Utah, shines in Ski Crazy. Filmed the year before baggy ski pants disappeared forever, Johnson’s skiing captures the final moments of vintage ski style.
Jim McConkey
Long before he became a ski legend in Whistler, Jim McConkey, Farther of World Famous, extreme skier, Shane McConkey, was stealing scenes in Ski Crazy. His blend of expert skiing and playful comedy helped define the film’s signature charm.
Ski Crazy also starred incredible women whose contributions shaped ski culture.
• Sally Neidlinger — US, Olympic Skier (1952). Known for her upbeat screen presence and fearless skiing.
• Barbara Rhoades — A natural performer who brought grace and comedic timing to the slopes.
The unforgettable pairing of Darrell “Pinky” Robison and Jim Shane added heart and humor to Ski Crazy. Their antics, athleticism, and old-school charm helped launch the movie into international success in 1955.
“Join us for a laugh-filled trip back to the golden era of skiing!” concludes Hawley, who will lead the evening with a live introduction. “Celebrate the trailblazers who made ski films famous.”