The 30+ Best Ski Movies Of All Time

Ranker Film
Updated May 16, 2024 146.4K views 38 items
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Vote up your favorite movies that feature skiing and skiers.
Latest additions: Weak Layers
Most divisive: Force Majeure
Over 800 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 30+ Best Ski Movies Of All Time

The 1980s were the heyday for the best ski movies set on snowy mountains, with characters in brightly colored windbreakers and goggles usually spending their formative years slacking off while teaching rich families how to shred. This is a list of the greatest ski movies of all time, including the funniest snow movies, the best ski movies, and even new ski and snowboard movies hitting theaters today. These are films with stories that feature skiing as a central theme. If you believe we've left a top ski movie off of this list, please feel free to add it to the list yourself. Skiing has been popular for millennia, but surprisingly ski movies didn't reach their golden age until the '80s. Ski films were so popular during this era, that 30 years later they're now even parodied. The best ski movies were so good that they can never be replicated now and some them might even be available on Netflix.

What are the best ski movies ever? This list includes all genres of ski movies (although virtually all of them are comedies). Also, keep in mind that this list focuses on snow skiing instead of water skiing. If you love hitting the mountains on skis then these are the movies for you. Pick your favorite movies about skiing and vote for them so they rise to the top! Share this skiing movies list with your friends to compare your tastes.

 

  • Hot Dog…The Movie
    1
    233 votes

    Hot Dog...The Movie, a hilarious ski comedy that hit the screens in January 1984, raked in over $17 million and solidified its status as an iconic '80s laugh-fest. Its captivating portrayal of skiing culture and exhilarating on-slope action make this film a truly memorable experience for ski enthusiasts and movie lovers alike.

  • Better Off Dead
    2
    Savage Steve Holland
    219 votes

    In this quirky comedy, teenager Lane Meyer (John Cusack) navigates a peculiar family life and an obsessive relationship with his girlfriend Beth (Amanda Wyss), who eventually breaks up with him, leading to multiple failed suicide attempts. As Lane finds solace in his eccentric friend Charles (Curtis Armstrong) and forms a bond with visiting French student Monique (Diane Franklin), he ultimately challenges Beth's arrogant new boyfriend to a high-stakes ski race that delivers surprising outcomes. This film showcases exhilarating skiing sequences and captures the essence of ski culture, making it an enjoyable watch for winter sports enthusiasts.

  • Aspen Extreme
    3
    Patrick Hasburgh
    157 votes

    This ski film follows the journey of two ski enthusiasts, TJ Burke and Dexter Rutecki, as they leave Brighton, Michigan for Aspen in search of a better life and become ski instructors amidst challenges that threaten their bond. Set against the backdrop of breathtaking slopes and an intense Powder 8 competition, this film brilliantly shows the thrilling essence of skiing while exploring themes of friendship, ambition, and personal growth.

  • Ski Patrol
    4

    Ski Patrol

    Richard Correll
    137 votes

    In this ski-themed comedy, lodge owner Pops (Ray Walston) faces the threat of losing his business to ruthless entrepreneur Sam Maris (Martin Mull), who plans to replace it with a massive resort. However, Maris underestimates the zany ski patrol team determined to save their beloved mountain haven from destruction. The thrill and camaraderie of the ski culture are alive and well in this film, while it also provides non-stop laughs and entertaining antics on the slopes.

  • Out Cold
    5
    Brendan Malloy, Emmett Malloy
    124 votes

    Outrageous humor meets thrilling snowboarding action in this tale of four friends - Rick (Jason London), Luke (Zach Galifianakis), Anthony (Flex Alexander), and Pigpen - who live for shredding the slopes on Alaska's Bull Mountain. This film stands out as an exceptional ski movie, capturing awesome stunts and a lively party atmosphere that truly embodies the spirit of winter sports enthusiasts.

  • Ski School
    6
    Damian Lee
    140 votes

    In this thrilling ski film, expert skier Dave Marshak and his fun-loving friends, known as "Section 8," must face off against a group of snobby rivals in a high-stakes downhill competition to save their jobs and reputation. This captivating movie showcases intense skiing action and an engaging story that makes it a top-notch choice for fans of the sport.

  • Hot Tub Time Machine
    7
    140 votes

    In this ski resort-set film, four friends - Adam (John Cusack), Lou (Rob Corddry), Craig (Craig Robinson), and Jacob (Clark Duke) - find themselves dissatisfied with their adult lives but are given the opportunity to alter their futures by revisiting 1986 after a drunken night in a hot tub. The movie masterfully combines skiing with time-travel comedy, making it an enjoyable and memorable addition to the genre of ski films.

  • Fire and Ice
    8
    Willy Bogner, Jr.
    4 votes

    A German sports film that is masterfully directed by Willy Bogner. The movie brilliantly captures the essence of skiing, with exhilarating action sequences and breathtaking scenery that immerses viewers in the world of winter sports.

  • Eddie the Eagle
    9
    Dexter Fletcher
    11 votes

    This biopic chronicles the inspiring true story of Michael "Eddie" Edwards, an unlikely but courageous British ski-jumper who defies all odds to compete in the 1988 Winter Olympics. The film brilliantly showcases the thrills and challenges faced by skiers.

  • Downhill Racer
    10
    Michael Ritchie
    54 votes

    Downhill Racer chronicles the journey of a cocky and talented skier, David Chappellet (Robert Redford), as he joins the American ski team, clashes with his coach (Gene Hackman), and competes against top skier Johnny Creech (Jim McMullan) for a spot in the Olympic Games. This film showcases breath-taking skiing scenes and explores the competitive nature of professional athletes, making it an enthralling watch for skiers and sports drama lovers alike.

  • Ski School 2
    11
    David Mitchell
    25 votes

    When Dave receives a wedding invitation from his ex-girlfriend Beth, he becomes determined to win her back and embarks on an adventure filled with skiing and chaos alongside his friends. The film combines ski scenes with comedic elements, making it a truly entertaining and unforgettable ski movie.

  • The Spy Who Loved Me
    12
    50 votes

    In an action-packed mission that takes him skiing off cliffs and maneuvering a car underwater, British super-spy James Bond (Roger Moore) teams up with alluring Russian agent Anya Amasova (Barbara Bach) to take down power-hungry shipping tycoon Karl Stromberg (Curt Jurgens), who plans to annihilate New York City using nuclear weaponry. Among the thrilling ski sequences, Bond faces his most formidable foe in Stromberg's henchman, Jaws (Richard Kiel), a seven-foot behemoth equipped with fearsome steel teeth.

  • Chalet Girl
    13
    Phil Traill
    34 votes

    At an upscale ski resort, Kim (Felicity Jones) takes up snowboarding to help her father financially and discovers her natural talent, leading her to compete for a grand cash prize while navigating complicated feelings for her unavailable boss, Jonny (Ed Westwick). The film gives insight into the exhilarating world of skiing and snowboarding, showcasing breathtaking slopes and adrenaline-pumping action.

  • Winter Break
    14
    Marni Banack
    26 votes

    Matt (Milo Ventimiglia) is persuaded by his best friend, Peter (Eddie Kaye Thomas), and his college buddies to spend the winter in Aspen after graduating, leading to a wild vacation filled with love and life-changing decisions. With hilarious ski scenes and an engaging storyline, this film captures the essence of a snow-filled adventure.

  • Ski Troop Attack
    15
    Roger Corman
    7 votes

    Ski Troop Attack (1960) is an engaging war film directed by Roger Corman, which was released as a double feature alongside Battle of Blood Island. This captivating ski movie has daring ski sequences and snow-filled action scenes that make it stand out in the genre.

  • Steep
    16

    Steep

    Mark Obenhaus
    5 votes

    Steep chronicles the evolution of extreme skiing from its inception in the 1960s to its present-day popularity, featuring iconic figures such as Bill Briggs and Doug Coombs alongside breathtaking footage from remote ski locations. The title captures the essence of extreme skiing's exhilarating nature, showcasing awesome achievements and stunning landscapes in Canada, Alaska, and Iceland with narration by Peter Krause.

  • The Art of Skiing
    17
    5 votes

    A whimsical animated short featuring Goofy as he hilariously learns the ins and outs of skiing. This charming title is a great introduction to skiing through its delightful humor and captivating animation, making it a memorable addition to the genre.

  • Frozen
    18
    Adam Green
    17 votes

    Frozen follows the harrowing tale of three skiers stranded on a chairlift, forced to make life-or-death choices in order to survive. This gripping film showcases the thrilling and perilous aspects of skiing, making it an unforgettable addition to the genre.

  • Force Majeure
    19
    Ruben Östlund
    16 votes

    A darkly comedic Swedish ski film directed by Ruben Östlund, which delves into the strained relationship between Thomas and his wife, Ebba, as they confront the aftermath of him leaving them behind during an avalanche to save himself. The film masterfully utilizes the skiing backdrop to explore themes of survival instincts and family dynamics.

  • Extreme Ops
    20
    Christian Duguay
    5 votes

    In this adrenaline-pumping film, director Ian (Rufus Sewell) takes his crew to the Alps to capture a group of extreme sports enthusiasts for a TV commercial, only to inadvertently stumble upon Serbian warlord Pavlov's (Klaus Lowitsch) hideout and spark an intense chase. The movie intertwines skiing action with high-stakes suspense, making it a thrilling ski adventure that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

  • The Last of the Ski Bums
    21

    The Last of the Ski Bums

    Dick Barrymore
    5 votes

    An action sports documentary, penned and helmed by the talented Dick Barrymore. This iconic title lays out the essence of ski culture in a captivating manner, making it a must-watch for ski enthusiasts and film lovers alike.

  • In this inspiring film, former downhill skiing champion Jill Kinmont (Marilyn Hassett) grapples with quadriplegia and the loss of a friend while reconnecting with her roots during a summer vacation in rural California, where she encounters love in the form of local trucker John Boothe (Timothy Bottoms). This ski movie delves into themes of resilience and personal growth alongside the beauty and challenges associated with the world of skiing.

  • Streif: One Hell of a Ride
    23

    Streif: One Hell of a Ride

    Gerald Salmina, Tom Dauer
    4 votes

    Streif: One Hell of a Ride shows off the thrilling and perilous journey of skiers tackling the world's most challenging downhill course. This film brilliantly exhibits the ski stunts, making it an exceptional choice for enthusiasts seeking adrenaline-pumping ski action.

  • Into the Mind
    24

    Into the Mind

    Dave Mossop, Eric Crosland, Malcolm Sangster
    4 votes

    An enthralling sports documentary directed by Dave Mossop and Eric Crosland, which delves deep into the world of skiing. Its immersive cinematography and compelling storytelling make it an exceptional movie for experienced and beginner skiers.

  • The Other Side of the Mountain
    25

    In this gripping film set a year before the 1956 Olympics, teenage skiing champion Jill Kinmont (Marilyn Hassett) experiences a life-altering fall during competition, leaving her paralyzed and fighting to regain what she's lost. The compelling portrayal of resilience in the face of adversity makes this title an exceptional movie about skiing, capturing not only the physical challenges but also the emotional strength required for success in the sport.

  • Gran Slalom
    26
    Jaime Chávarri
    3 votes
  • Attack of La Niña
    27

    Attack of La Niña

    Scott Gaffney, Murray Wais, Steve Winter
    6 votes

    This doc follows the world's most daring skiers as they take on extreme weather conditions and breathtaking terrain in pursuit of their passion. The documentary showcases awe-inspiring landscapes and adrenaline-pumping action that will leave winter sports enthusiasts out of breath.

  • A captivating sports documentary directed by Todd Jones, which follows the renowned skier as she strives to surpass Ingemar Stenmark's record for the highest number of World Cup victories. This enthralling film showcases the thrilling world of skiing and provides an intimate glimpse into Vonn's relentless determination and passion for the sport.

  • First Descent
    29
    Kemp Curly, Kevin Harrison
    5 votes

    In this exhilarating film, snowboarders delve into the sport's rich history and tackle its challenges as they gear up for an epic adventure on Alaska's slopes. The movie captures breathtaking stunts and picturesque landscapes, making it a must-watch for any ski enthusiast.

  • Slalom
    30
    Charlène Favier
    3 votes

    A French sports drama, helmed by Charlène Favier, follows a talented 15-year-old girl as she navigates the physical and emotional challenges of becoming a professional skiing prodigy under the tutelage of an exacting former champion. It's perspective on the world of competitive skiing, makes it a good addition to the ski movie genre.