Proximity

Proximity is a visceral and raw adventure into the life and minds of some of the world's most renowned extreme sports athletes. Produced by acclaimed surf filmmaker Taylor Steele and starring professional surfers Kelly Slater and John John Florence, this 2017 film combines the thrill of action sports with a deeply introspective look at the individuals that dedicate their lives to riding waves.

In an exploration of talent and courage, the film features four unique pairs of surfers, including Slater and Florence, who each symbolize a particular aspect of the surfing life. By putting together different generations of surfers, Proximity approaches the various facets of this globally acclaimed sport from distinct perspectives.

The film opens with Kelly Slater, who is arguably the most decorated surfer in history, having amassed a record number of 11 World Championship surfing titles across his illustrious career. John John Florence, on the other hand, represents the coming of age of a new generation of surfers, having already proven himself to be a force to be reckoned with in the world of professional surfing.

Though both have drastically different backgrounds and aren't as close in age, the bond between Slater and Florence is cemented by their shared passion, surging adrenaline, and relentless journey to perfect their craft -- pole positions in the paradigms of big wave surfing. Woven through stunning sequences of extreme surf action, Proximity brings Slater and Florence's shared love for the ocean to life, illuminating their connection on a fundamental human level.

Proximity isn't just about thrilling waves and daring tricks, although there's plenty of those to keep any audience entertained. Instead, the film delves into the intimate and sometimes isolating moments off the beach that underpin the athlete's draw to the sea. Backed by Steele's masterful direction and the powerful cinematography of Todd Glaser, Proximity goes far beyond just capturing waves. It captures the soul of the people who ride them — Slater and Florence, in particular.

One major selling point of Proximity is the unfiltered, candid interviews interspersed throughout the film. These provide invaluable insights into the mindset of these high-performing athletes. Both Slater and Florence open up on a hitherto unseen level, voicing intimate perspectives on everything from overcoming fear and their individual approaches to the sport to the personal, life-changing moments that have shaped their passion for surfing.

With its emphasis on tight pairings, the film goes beyond merely juxtaposing the surfers with each other. It also places the athletes against the stark, compelling contrasts of the vast and unpredictable ocean, and through this, explores a deeper narrative about proximity. That is, the physical closeness, within reach of daring waves, and the figurative proximity - to fear, to failure, to greatness.

More than just talent and technique, Proximity also keenly highlights the importance of equipment as it showcases Slater's innovative, non-traditional board designs, while Florence is seen mastering the classic board, further emphasizing their shared passion yet different approaches to surfing.

Locations chosen for the film span the globe, delivering stunning natural backdrops that only enhance the overall experience. From the turquoise waters of the Pacific Islands to the rugged coasts of South America, the variety of environments not only provide aesthetic value but contribute significantly to the narrative. The unpredictable natural landscapes serve as personifications of the surfers' journeys, representing the triumphs, tribulations, and relentless pursuit of perfection inherent in their craft.

Proximity, at its heart, is a human story. It paints a vivid and compelling portrait of what it is to seek out the thrill of the ride, embracing the fear and the challenge, commanding the respect of the ocean, and finding personal fulfillment in every wave. The film eloquently celebrates the primal, often unspoken connection these surfers have with the sea, while also shedding light on the broader themes of aging, mentorship, and the passing of knowledge between generations.

To sum up, whether you're a die-hard surf fan or someone intrigued by human stories of passion and perseverance, Proximity is a must-watch. This cinematic journey into waves and the human spirit will captivate you, immerse you in the raw power and beauty of the ocean, and leave you with a deep-rooted respect for these exceptional athletes and the compelling narratives that drive them.