Neon Noir by Korua Shapes

Last winter Koura made their way back to Japan for the first time since Covid, with aims to dive into the bottomless pit of powder only Hokkaido can provide. And it did. Meanwhile back home in Switzerland they were met with the same conditions as when they left: the complete opposite to what they experienced overseas...
News January 2024
...

Last winter Koura made their way back to Japan for the first time since Covid, with aims to dive into the bottomless pit of powder only Hokkaido can provide. And it did. Meanwhile back home in Switzerland they were met with the same conditions as when they left: the complete opposite to what they experienced overseas. This inspired them to search for further contrasts, but also similarities between these two places they hold so dearly – Switzerland, their home, with its towering Alps, deep valleys, tiny villages and old European architecture; versus the serene rolling hills of Hokkaido, and the dense, bustling and vibrant madness that is Tokyo. Joined by a colourful cast and crew – Nicholas Wolken, James Niederberger, Spencer O’Brien, Runar Hjörleifsson, Daria Fuchs, Atsufumi Mizuno, Aaron Schwartz, Elle Hindert and Nathan McBride — they delved into a cinematic exploration of two cultures and terrains on opposite sides of the world – that are intimately connected to them through snowboarding, yet beautifully distinct in their own ways. This short film represents more than a mere visual treat; it’s a dialogue of moments and impressions, a narrative that dances in the light and shadows of Elle’s camera lens, capturing the essence of their shared experiences.

Featuring: Nicholas Wolken, James Niederberger, Spencer O’Brien, Runar Hjörleifsson, Atsufumi Mizuno, Daria Fuchs
Director & Editor: Elle Hindert Principal
Cinematography: Elle Hindert Sound
Design & Color: Elle Hindert
Creative Direction: Elle Hindert & Aaron Schwartz
FPV Drones: Nathan McBride Additional Cameras: Nathan McBride & Aaron Schwartz
Production Support: Aaron Schwartz, Nicholas Wolken, Geoff Brinkhaus Media Support: Sam Moody Still Photography & Graphic Design: Aaron Schwartz
Music Supervisor: Florent Chronie-De Maria Locations: Japan & Switzerland