Watch Dirty Old Wedge

Dirty Old Wedge is a fascinating documentary film that delves into the world of surfing, exploring one of Orange County, California's most iconic surf spots. Directed by Tim Burnham, the film offers an immersive and captivating look at the history and culture of Wedge, a notorious surf break that has been attracting surfers from around the world for over five decades.

At the heart of the film are the stories of some of the surfers who have dared to take on the Wedge's massive waves. These include legendary surfers like Mark Cunningham, Phil Castillo, and Greg Deets, who have spent years braving the treacherous swell, often risking life and limb in pursuit of the perfect ride. Through interviews, archival footage, and breathtaking footage of the waves themselves, the film explores the many challenges and rewards of surfing at the Wedge, from the sheer physical demands of the sport to the close-knit community that has developed around it over the years.

One of the most striking aspects of Dirty Old Wedge is the way it captures the sheer power and majesty of the Wedge waves themselves. Using groundbreaking camera technology and cutting-edge techniques, the film offers a visceral and thrilling look at the massive, churning swells that can tower up to 30 feet high, barreling toward the shore with incredible force. At times, the film feels less like a documentary and more like a thrilling action movie, with surfers battling the elements and the waves with fearless determination.

But Dirty Old Wedge is not just a film about extreme sports. It's also a deeply human story, exploring the personal motivations and struggles of the surfers who call the Wedge their home. Throughout the film, we hear from surfers like Cunningham, Castillo, and Deets as they reflect on the challenges and rewards of their chosen sport. From the thrill of catching the perfect wave to the fear and anxiety that comes with navigating unpredictable and dangerous conditions, these athletes offer a poignant and intimate glimpse into the psyche of the dedicated surfer.

At the same time, the film explores the complex and sometimes controversial history of the Wedge surf break. From its early days as an overlooked and dangerous spot that only the bravest surfers would dare to ride to its current status as an international destination and sometimes overly crowded surf mecca, the Wedge has seen its fair share of ups and downs over the years. Through interviews with longtime surfers and locals, as well as archival footage and photographs, Dirty Old Wedge offers a nuanced and fascinating look at the cultural and social context in which the surf break has emerged and evolved over the years.

All in all, Dirty Old Wedge is a thrilling and thought-provoking documentary film that offers a rare and intimate look at one of the world's most iconic and treacherous surf spots. With stunning cinematography, gripping human stories, and a thoughtful exploration of the cultural and social context in which the Wedge has emerged over the last several decades, this is a film that is sure to leave viewers both awestruck and deeply moved. Whether you're a seasoned surfer or a curious outsider, Dirty Old Wedge is a must-see film.

Dirty Old Wedge is a 2016 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 8 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.9.