Der Springer von Pontresina: Skiing, Romance, and Grumpy Trainers

Is it worth your time?

Honestly, only if you have a soft spot for black-and-white mountain dramas or just really love the look of vintage ski gear. If you are looking for high-octane sports action, you will probably hate this. It moves at the pace of a slow chairlift ride.

Cinematic perspective: Exploring the visual vocabulary of Der Springer von Pontresina (1934) through its definitive frames.

Tielko is supposed to be this rising star, but he’s distracted by the girl. We have all seen this movie before, but the setting helps. Pontresina looks absolutely gorgeous, even in 1934.

Cinematic perspective: Exploring the visual vocabulary of Der Springer von Pontresina (1934) through its definitive frames.

The vibe check

Uli is the real standout here. He spends half the movie just looking perpetually disappointed in people. I felt like I was back in gym class, waiting for the teacher to yell at me for not trying hard enough.

Cinematic perspective: Exploring the visual vocabulary of Der Springer von Pontresina (1934) through its definitive frames.

The chemistry between Tielko and Violett is... well, it's very polite. They stand close together and smile a lot. It’s not exactly She Done Him Right, but it gets the job done.

Cinematic perspective: Exploring the visual vocabulary of Der Springer von Pontresina (1934) through its definitive frames.

Oddly specific notes:

• The sound of the wind is louder than the dialogue in some scenes. It’s kind of distracting, but also weirdly immersive.
• The ski jumping equipment looks like it’s made of heavy oak and prayers.
• I’m not entirely sure why the British tourist is there, but she certainly creates some tension.
• One of the background extras in the hotel scene keeps checking his watch every five seconds. It’s hilarious once you spot it.

The movie doesn't try to be profound. It just wants to show off some jumps and a bit of romance. It’s not as manic as Daring Lions and Dizzy Lovers, which is probably for the best. It’s a quiet, cold, and slightly stuffy affair.

Cinematic perspective: Exploring the visual vocabulary of Der Springer von Pontresina (1934) through its definitive frames.

Sometimes, the training scenes drag on for a bit too long. I found myself checking my own phone, which is a bad sign, I know. But then they cut back to the mountain scenery, and I’m back in it. 🏔️

It’s a simple story. Sometimes that’s enough. Just don't expect it to change your life.