Watch South to Sian

South to Sian is a captivating documentary film directed by Dustin Humphrey that follows two Australian surfers, Matt Cuddihy and Jared Mell, and their friend Zye Norris, as they embark on a motorcycle journey across the islands of Indonesia. The film is shot entirely on 16mm film and delivers a raw, authentic and thrilling portrayal of the country's stunning rural landscapes, rich cultural heritage and epic surf breaks.

The film starts in Bali, where the three friends meet up, hop on their motorcycles and start their journey. The cinematography is breathtaking as they traverse through lush green rice paddies into dense tropical forests. The trio is shown camping in stunning locations along the way, meeting local villagers and experiencing their culture. Through their travels, they learn to embrace the beauty of Indonesia, both in nature and in the people they meet along the way.

As the journey progresses, the excitement builds with the introduction of more surfers and the search for the perfect waves. They explore many unknown surf spots and interact with the local surf community. Each wave is captured with an incredible eye for detail and vivid colors, bringing to life the magnitude of surfing in these pristine locations.

The film doesn't shy away from the less glamorous aspects of life on the road, including rough roads, breakdowns, and indigestion. But it's these challenges that help to bring the friends closer on their journey.

Throughout the documentary, viewers are treated to an evocative soundtrack with a diverse range of music, including Indonesian folk tunes, surf rock, and psychedelic rock. The music complements the stunning visuals to create an immersive experience for the audience.

In the film's climax, the surfers arrive at G-Land, a legendary surf spot on Java's eastern coast. G-Land is famous for its long walls of water, but it's also incredibly dangerous. As the waves build, the excitement of the surfers is palpable, and the footage is intense and authentic, showcasing the brutality and physical demands of surfing in such conditions.

Overall, South to Sian is a mesmerizing documentary that showcases the beauty of Indonesia, its people, and ultimately the thrill of chasing waves off the beaten path. It's a reminder that true adventure can be found in the unknown and the unglamorous, making it a must-watch film for surfers and adventure lovers alike.

In conclusion, South to Sian is a visual feast, capturing the awe-inspiring beauty of Indonesia’s landscapes and exposing the country’s rich culture. It is a film that showcases the spirit of adventure, and how friendship can be forged through challenges and passions. It’s a must-watch for those who love surf, adventure, and a stunning portrait of a fascinating country.

South to Sian is a 2016 documentary with a runtime of 52 minutes.