What’s the best way for a filmmaker to manage the weight of making a film about a true iconoclast? Having no idea who the subject is going into pitching yourself is a great start! 

That’s just one of the many honest and insightful stories the wickedly talented Fernado Villena shares with host Dan Napoli on this episode of Reel Life!  Fernado’s passion for the life of Jake Burton beams through the discussion as he gives an incredible peak into the making of this documentary currently at the top of the HBO Max charts.  

Fernando goes deep with Dan, sharing his inspirations for certain looks used in the film, meeting Jake Burton, why an iconic song almost didn’t making the cut, how he may have pissed off narrator Woody Harrelson, and the last thing Fernado said to Jake Burton as walked out of the room that may have gotten him the gig. 

A must- listen if you’ve ever picked up a camera or snowboard. You can catch the film, Dear Rider: The Jake Burton Story streaming free for subscribers on HBO Max now.