Momentum Generation

Momentum Generation is a compelling 2018 documentary that peers into the high adrenaline world of surfing. The film brings together influential icons of the sport such as Jeannie Chesser, Tom DeLonge, and Shane Dorian, to name a few. Through these vibrant personalities, the film offers a unique insight into the emerging surf culture of the 80s and 90s. However, Momentum Generation extends beyond mere sports documentation and delves into an intimate and intricate narration of friendship, competition, triumph, and personal evolution, set against the backdrop of undulating ocean waves.

This highly evocative documentary begins with wrestling the sands of time back to the late 80s and early 90s. A group of teenagers from disparate backgrounds meets on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii, out of their shared love for surfing. This unpredictable cadre of individuals gradually forms an iron bond and rises in the ranks of the surf world, developing into professional athletes.

Despite the diversity in their backgrounds, the common thread throughout the narrative is their collective passion for surfing. From riding the turbulent waves to capturing the essence of the sport, we find ourselves seamlessly embedded into their dynamic world. The film demonstrates how each surfer dealt uniquely with the pressures of a wildly competitive sporting environment while staying true to their love for the ocean.

Interspersed through the documentary are expansive and breath-taking shots of the surfers defying gravity, riding upon monstrous Hawaiian waves. The cinematography captures the sheer force and passion that these surfers exhibit, reinforcing the look and feel of the film.

The film does a wonderful job of humanizing these legends of the sport. The narrative oscillates between the adrenaline of the surf world and touching personal stories. The surfers recount their struggles with confidence, the thrill of the competition, the heartbreak of losses, the joy of unprecedented success, and the trials and tribulations of dealing with fame at a young age.

The inclusion of authentic archival footage and interviews add depth to the storytelling, providing a more personal and empathetic perspective on these athletes’ lives. The retrospectives focus on their collective journey of transforming the world's perception of surfing from a lifestyle sport to an international professional competition.

Dominating the narrative are the stories of Jeannie Chesser, Tom DeLonge, and Shane Dorian. Jeannie Chesser, a well-known surf icon, provides the perspective of a pioneering woman mastering a predominantly male arena. Tom DeLonge, the lead vocalist and guitarist of the rock band Blink-182, surprises audiences with his incredible affinity for surfing and brings a completely different type of fame and exploration to the narrative. The film also focuses on the journey of Shane Dorian, a renowned big-wave surfer, and traces his evolution in the surfing world from an ambitious teenager to an accomplished adult.

Directed by Jeff and Michael Zimbalist, the film is a testament to the strength of friendships and the sacrifices required to reach and maintain the pinnacle of professional surfing. It evocively presents the highs, lows, thrills, heartbreaks, and victories of surfing, while also focusing on the evolution of the sport through the lens of these inspiring individuals who enhanced its popularity, style, and creativity.

In essence, Momentum Generation is a powerful tale of camaraderie between legends who pushed boundaries and changed the face of surfing. It is a must-watch for not only sports enthusiasts, but also those who appreciate intense, emotion-filled narratives about overcoming adversity, fostering friendship, and pursuing passion. Whether you are a hardcore surfing fan or simply intrigued by the spirit and culture of the sport, 'Momentum Generation' promises a ride worth catching. The movie beautifully explores how competition can sear friendships, dreams can be realized, losses can be intense, fame can be consuming, yet one's love for the majestic ocean – and their ‘ohana’ or family, found or given – always continue to endure.