Outdoor-focused Traverse Cinema Studio explores Colorado landscapes, culture and history

By Adair Teuton

Dinosaurs capture kids’ imaginations, but they can become a lifelong obsession for a devoted group who unearth, sell and sometimes steal fossils. Colorado-based Traverse Cinema Studio wants to tell their stories through a documentary called “The Fossilist.” To complete and distribute the film, Traverse just launched a crowdfunding campaign with an initial $25,000 goal to start post-production work.

Founded in 2022 by award-winning filmmaker Thomas Kolicko, Traverse has quickly become a beacon of outdoor storytelling, deeply rooted in the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture of Colorado. Kolicko’s journey into filmmaking began at age 14, documenting snowboarding adventures in rural New Jersey. This passion evolved into a dream of creating a studio that marries his love for filmmaking, the mountains, and the spirit of adventure. Colorado, with its stunning natural beauty, provided the perfect setting for this vision.

“We saw an opportunity to create a unique production company that combines our love for storytelling with our passion for the natural world,” Kolicko shares. “Being based in Colorado gives us unparalleled access to some of the most breathtaking locations in the country. The mountains, forests, and rivers that we call our backyard serve as a constant source of inspiration.”

Colorado: More than just a backdrop

Colorado’s majestic landscapes are not just a backdrop for Traverse Cinema Studio; they are integral to its storytelling. The state's diverse terrains and spirited outdoor culture provide a rich canvas for the studio's non-fiction narratives. The commitment to environmental storytelling is evident in its films, which often explore the intricate relationship between humans and nature.

Kolicko and his team have witnessed firsthand the impact of overcrowding and environmental changes on Colorado’s landscapes. “We believe that immersing ourselves in nature helps us create more authentic and impactful stories that connect with viewers on a deeper level,” Kolicko explains. By engaging with the local film community and collaborating with like-minded creatives, the studio aims to establish Colorado as a hub for thought-provoking, environmentally-conscious storytelling.

The heartbeat of outdoor filmmaking

Traverse Cinema Studio’s filmmaking philosophy is rooted in a passion for the great outdoors and the untamed landscapes that beckon with raw beauty and untold stories. The selection process for their films begins with a spark of curiosity, leading to extensive research and exploration. “We carefully consider whether there is a niche audience that would be excited to see a film or story like the one we have in mind,” Kolicko says. The studio then connects with the people living these stories, building relationships to develop authentic and meaningful narratives.

One of the studio’s guiding principles is sustainability. They strive to make their filmmaking practices as eco-friendly as possible, using solar generators in the field and giving a percentage of profits to environmental conservation organizations. “We believe the stories we choose to tell can have a powerful impact on audiences, inspiring them to support products and organizations that address the environmental crisis,” he says.

Premiering "The Whiskey Film"

In addition to exploring paleontology in “The Fossilist,” a 2024 project named "The Whiskey Film" also epitomizes Traverse’s mission of telling compelling stories deeply connected to the land and its people. Set in the San Luis Valley, the film chronicles the Cody family’s journey with the Colorado Malting Company and their innovative approach to farming.

The Cody family’s story began 90 years ago with "Pappy" Ray Cody, who transformed arid land into a thriving farm under President Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s New Deal. Today, the family continues this legacy through the Colorado Malting Company, diversifying into the whiskey industry to control the price of their grain and sell directly to local brewers and distillers. This venture saved the family farm and highlights the resilience and ingenuity needed to compete.

Capturing resilience and innovation

“At its core, "The Whiskey Film" is not just about the whiskey itself, but about the people, time, and dedication that go into every bottle. We want viewers to appreciate that whiskey is a product of time, with time being the hidden ingredient that shapes its character and flavor,” Kolicko says.

Kolicko and cinematographer Brendan Harris spent months developing a visual language that conveys the themes of resilience and innovation. They used vintage lenses and a digital-to-film print process to give the footage a nostalgic, timeless quality, aiming to transport the audience back in time.

“We wanted to create a slower, more contemplative pace that would allow viewers to fully immerse themselves in the world of the farm,” he says.The film captures the quiet stillness of the early morning hours before the combines begin to harvest, inviting viewers to connect with the Cody family’s story on a visceral level.

Reflecting Colorado’s culture and history

“The Whiskey Film” reflects Colorado’s unique culture and history, capturing the essence of the Old West and the pioneering spirit that defines the state. “When we think of Colorado, we often imagine cowboys bellying up to the bar and ordering a shot of whiskey, embodying the rugged individualism and adventurous spirit that has drawn so many people to this land,” Kolicko says.

The film showcases the Cody family’s challenges and results, inviting audiences to experience the Colorado spirit – a willingness to venture into new frontiers, take risks, and pursue dreams against all odds.

The film “will encourage people to slow down, reflect on the small things in life, and be grateful for the moments and people they share their lives with, perhaps even over a sip of whiskey at the end of a long day,” he says.

Looking to the future

Traverse Cinema Studio is poised to continue bringing audiences compelling films, shows, and shorts that showcase their passion for storytelling and commitment to exploring diverse topics. With several projects in development, including a full second season of "The Whiskey Film," the studio is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of digital cinema.

“We believe that now is a fantastic time for independent filmmakers to create and share their unique perspectives with the world,” Kolicko concludes. Traverse Cinema Studio’s dedication to environmentally conscious storytelling and deep connection to Colorado’s landscapes make them a significant voice in the film industry and a proud representative of Colorado’s cultural richness.