Slippery When Wet

Slippery When Wet, released in 1958, is iconic in the world of surfing documentaries and stands as one of the early precursors that projected the sport from a regional pastime into a worldwide phenomenon. Created and directed by Bruce Brown, who is renowned for shaping the world of surf cinema with his other groundbreaking films like The Endless Summer, Slippery When Wet provides awe-inspiring visuals and a compelling narrative that delves deep into the surf culture of the era.

The film finds its magic as it weaves the participation of Brown himself with other legendary figures from the world of surfing. Kemp Aaberg, a renowned professional surfer in the industry, plays a significant part in the film, bringing a first-hand perspective that captures the joy and adrenaline of surfing in a way that resonates with both the surf enthusiasts and casual viewers.

The film also highlights Del Cannon, whose surfing stunts and expert insights add exciting dimensions to the narrative. Together, Aaberg, Brown, and Cannon successfully manage to capture the spirit of surfing in their unique ways, enriching the film and making it a far-reaching depiction of this exhilarating sport.

Shot primarily in Hawaii and California, Slippery When Wet is more than just a chronicle of perfect swells and skillful surf moves. Throughout the runtime, it captures the serene landscapes, crystal clear waters, and panoramic views that serve as a backdrop to the thrilling activity taking place on the waves. These locations, picturesque as they are thrilling, heighten the film's overall experience and transport the viewer into these slice-of-paradise surf spots.

Brown employs his knack for filmmaking by integrating innovative shooting techniques of the time that brought a novel dimension to the surf genre. Employing high-speed cameras and unique angles, he could capture the rhythm and beauty of the surfer’s relationship with the ocean and waves. The synchronized dance of the surfers with the waves was immortalized, allowing the viewers to vicariously experience the thrilling surf performances.

The film is also embellished with a musical score that enhances the visual treat. The soundtrack harmonizes with the rise and fall of the surf, intertwining seamlessly with the narrative and the rolling break of the ocean waves to create an ambiance that is quintessentially surf culture. The selection of songs feels almost like a character in itself, exemplifying the free-spirited ethos and camaraderie within the growing surf community.

Brown's style of storytelling in Slippery When Wet is infused with a scholarly documentary essence interspersed with light-hearted narration that brings out the human element of the surfers involved. He manages to showcase the intricate details of surfing techniques and gear, like the design and crafting of surfboards – a feature that later becomes a staple in his films. The audience is offered snippets of the surfers' life beyond the ocean, their friendships, the fun times on the beach, and the after-dark surf sessions – all woven into a fascinating narrative that gives a holistic depiction of the lifestyle these individuals embraced.

Moreover, through the course of the film, the audience is acquainted with the surfers' struggles with unpredictable weather patterns and the physical toll of the sport. This inclusion showcases the perseverance of the surfers, their dedication to their sport, despite the adversities they often encounter.

In conclusion, Slippery When Wet is a must-watch film for not only surf enthusiasts but anybody interested in sports documentaries. It serves as a historical record of surfing in the late 1950s, capturing the culture in its early, raw stages, while packaging it appealingly enough for a general audience. It is a brilliant example of how a passionate filmmaker like Bruce Brown can encapsulate the embodying spirit of a sport and culture, making it accessible for generations to come. The lasting legacy of the film can be credited to the combination of its captivating visual aesthetics, iconic surfing moments, vibrant soundtrack, and, importantly, the passion of the personalities like Kemp Aaberg and Del Cannon portrayed on screen.