Watch Beyond the Surface

Beyond the Surface is a 2014 documentary film directed by filmmaker and avid surfer Crystal Thornburg-Homcy. The film tells the story of a group of surfers from around the world who travel to India to surf with and learn from the local fishing community. Not only do they learn to surf on handmade bamboo surfboards, they also explore the culture and traditions of the people they meet on their journey.

The film follows the six surfers as they journey to a remote region of southern India, the state of Tamil Nadu, to meet with the fisherman community who live there. The surfers - Dave Rastovich, Lauren Lindsay Hill, Maurice Meyer, Shannon Sol Carroll, Aamion Goodwin, and Tom and Jon Wegener - come from different countries and backgrounds and each has their own story to tell.

The surfers are met with an extremely warm welcome by the fishing community and are quick to form friendships with the locals. The surfers are able to learn about the local fishing practices, including how to make their own surfboards using bamboo and resin. The surfers quickly learn that surfing in the area is not easy due to the heavy pollution in the water and the dangers of the currents.

Beyond the Surface is a beautifully shot film, capturing the stunning landscapes of India and the powerful waves of the Bay of Bengal. The film also delves into the social and environmental issues that face India's coastal communities, such as pollution and overfishing. The film highlights the important role that the local fishermen play in the sustainable management of their resources, as they strive to balance their livelihoods with the need to protect their environment for future generations.

The film is not just about surfing, but also about cultural exchange and the power of human connection. Through the surfers' interactions with the local community, the film explores the importance of respecting and learning from other cultures. They learn about the community's way of life, their beliefs and traditions, and the hardships they face.

Lauren Lindsey Hill, one of the surfers featured in the film, is a musician, surfer, and activist. Her music is also featured in the film, adding another layer to the storytelling. Hill talks about her personal journey and how she has used surfing as a way to connect with people and raise awareness about environmental issues.

The film also highlights the power of women in the community, as they play a key role in the fishing industry and their families. The women are not just wives and mothers, but also skilled fisherwomen who work alongside their male counterparts. The film challenges the stereotype of women as passive and oppressed, showcasing their strength and resilience.

Beyond the Surface is a film that transcends the boundaries of a traditional surfing documentary. It is a story of connection, cultural exchange, and environmental consciousness. The film showcases how surfing can be a platform for creating social change and building bridges between people from different parts of the world.

In conclusion, Beyond the Surface is a fantastic documentary that celebrates surfing, culture, and community. It is a beautifully crafted film that tells an engaging and thought-provoking story. The film leaves the viewer with a sense of hope and inspiration, reminding us of the power of human connection and our shared responsibility to protect our environment.

Beyond the Surface is a 2015 documentary with a runtime of 46 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.4.