Heaps Good 70s Surf Movies

 The term "an oldie, but a goodie" applies to 70s surf movies. Taking a look back a seminal 70s surf movies that are a must watch.

The 1970s was a golden era for surf culture, with the sport gaining immense popularity and influencing various aspects of mainstream culture, including film. During this vibrant decade, a wave of surf movies hit the silver screen, capturing the essence of the surfing lifestyle and showcasing the thrill of riding the ocean's waves. In this blog post, we'll ride the nostalgia wave and explore some of the best surf movies from the 1970s that left an indelible mark on both surf enthusiasts and moviegoers alike.

"Big Wednesday" (1978)

Directed by John Milius, "Big Wednesday" is often regarded as one of the quintessential surf films of the '70s. Set in California, the movie follows the lives of three friends as they navigate the challenges of adulthood while chasing the perfect wave. The film beautifully captures the camaraderie of surf culture and the epic scale of the waves.

"Morning of the Earth" (1971)

This Australian documentary-style film directed by Albert Falzon is a soulful exploration of the surfing lifestyle and the connection between surfers and nature. With stunning visuals and a mesmerizing soundtrack, "Morning of the Earth" celebrates the spiritual and artistic aspects of surfing.

"Five Summer Stories" (1972)

Directed by Greg MacGillivray and Jim Freeman, "Five Summer Stories" offers an intimate look into the lives of a group of California surfers. Through a combination of breathtaking footage and insightful interviews, the film delves into the personal stories of the surfers and their passion for the waves.

"Pacific Vibrations" (1970)

A psychedelic journey through the world of surfing, "Pacific Vibrations" directed by John Severson is a visually captivating film that blends surf action with experimental animation and music. The film's unique approach adds a distinct artistic flair to the genre.

"Crystal Voyager" (1973)

Director David Elfick tells the incredible story of George Greenough, a visionary surfer and filmmaker. "Crystal Voyager" is not only a surf movie but also a tribute to Greenough's innovation in surfboard design and his daring pursuit of the perfect wave.

"In Natural Flow" (1976)

This film by Jock Sutherland captures the untamed spirit of surfing, focusing on locations such as Hawaii and Indonesia. The movie showcases the raw power of the waves and the fearless surfers who embraced the challenges posed by these epic breaks.

"Free Ride" (1977)

Directed by Bill Delaney, "Free Ride" features iconic surfers like Gerry Lopez and Shaun Tomson as they ride waves across the globe. The film not only emphasizes the physicality of surfing but also delves into the philosophical aspects of the sport.

"The Endless Summer" (1966, but had a major impact in the 1970s)

While technically released in the 1960s, Bruce Brown's "The Endless Summer" continued to resonate throughout the 1970s. This classic documentary follows two surfers as they embark on a journey around the world in search of the perfect wave, spreading the gospel of surf culture and adventure.

The 1970s was a transformative decade for both surfing and film, with an array of surf movies that captured the heart and soul of the sport. These films not only showcased the exhilaration of riding the waves but also explored the deeper connections between surfers, the ocean, and the natural world. Whether you're a dedicated surfer or simply intrigued by the allure of the ocean, these surf movies from the '70s continue to inspire and entertain, serving as a timeless reminder of the beauty and freedom that come with riding the wave.