The lights dimmed. Conversations hushed as the screen illuminated to reveal the wild, untouched beauty of Iceland’s western fjords as filmmaker and explorer Chris Burkard premiered his newest film, A Northern Life to a packed house at Hula in Burlington, Vermont.
What followed was nothing short of transportive.
This latest project - in which Chris Burkard acts as Creative Director alongside filmmakers Ben Weiland and Brian Davis - came to life as collaboration with the iconic apparel brand Faherty. It captures two individuals surfing, camping, fishing, and exploring their way through Iceland’s shifting seasons. Burkard’s perspective offers not just scenery, but raw atmosphere: a world where rugged coastline meets human curiosity.
Wide angle aerials sweep across mountains and waters, reverent close ups linger on small, quiet moments. Shot on both 16mm and digital, the film blends texture and clarity into what Burkard calls “a love letter to Iceland.” Honestly? It feels exactly that: breathtaking, intimate, and incredibly alive.
News of Burkard’s arrival in Burlington rippled quickly through the outdoor community. Was the world-renowned explorer and filmmaker really coming here ... in winter? Yes. Excitement skyrocketed. Faherty and Session Magazine teamed up to bring the premiere to the Hula Lakeside campus creating the perfect meeting point for cold water film and cold weather culture.
Local notables like Hannah Mitrani and friends joined the crowd, along with a rabid roomful of film viewers. The Session Magazine team kicked off the night as more than 200 people filled every seat—and then some. By the time the lights fell, it was standing room only.
The film’s fourteen minutes delivered everything the audience hoped for: sweeping mountains, sharp cliff lines, open plains, glacial rivers spilling turquoise into the sea while being brought to life with poetic Icelandic narration and English subtitles. It was pure immersion.
After the screening, Burkard treated the audience to an intimate behind-the-scenes slideshow. He shared choices the filmmaking team made, obstacles they faced, and stories of Iceland’s resilient coastal communities. Audience questions came quick and curious and included everything from filming technique to locales of certain surf breaks to the cultural rhythm of remote Icelandic life.
In the end, in an enormous gesture of generosity from Faherty X Burkhard, every attendee was given a photographic print from the film. Burkard stayed on to sign every one, taking time to chat with anyone who approached. The energy was grateful and electric. Burlington knew it had witnessed something special.
Not only had the city hosted a rare in-person premiere, it debuted a new Burkard film before it travels to festivals across North America and beyond. A Northern Life offers a glimpse into Iceland’s dramatic landscapes, resilient communities, and the type of adventure that exists far off the beaten path.
A journey worth taking. A film worth remembering.
Event proceeds for the evening were donated in support of the Lake Champlain Committe, protecting local waters.
Want to hear about more film releases and special events from Session Magazine?
Sign up for our newsletter at the bottom of our homepage HERE and stay in the loop.
