Watch The Westsiders

The Westsiders is a documentary film released in 2010 that follows the lives of three surfers from Santa Cruz, California, who are part of the legendary Westside surf community. The film is directed and produced by Joshua Pomer, a filmmaker and surfer who has been documenting the sport for over 20 years. The film features interviews with some of the biggest names in surfing, including Kelly Slater, Rob Machado, and Shane Dorian. The three surfers at the center of the film are Darryl "Flea" Virostko, Shawn "Barney" Barron, and Jason "Ratboy" Collins. All three grew up on the Westside of Santa Cruz and were drawn to the waves at a young age. They quickly became part of the Westside surf community, which was known for producing some of the best surfers in the world. However, their paths diverged as they grew older. Flea became one of the most successful surfers to come out of Santa Cruz, winning three consecutive Mavericks surf contests in the early 2000s. However, his success was marred by drug addiction and a near-fatal overdose. The film follows Flea as he struggles to overcome his addiction and get back into the water. Barney was a prodigy in his youth, but his career was cut short by a series of injuries. He turned to drugs and alcohol to cope with the pain and eventually ended up in jail. The film documents Barney's journey to recovery and his efforts to give back to the Westside surf community. Ratboy was the youngest of the three surfers and was known for his irreverent personality and punk rock style. He struggled to find his place in the competitive world of professional surfing and eventually gave up on competing altogether. The film follows Ratboy as he tries to rediscover his love for surfing and reconnect with the Westside community. The Westsiders also explores the history and culture of the Westside surf community. Interviews with local surf legends and historians provide context for the community's unique identity and its significance in the world of surfing. The film is shot in a gritty, raw style that captures the energy and danger of surfing. The waves at Mavericks, a notoriously treacherous surf break off the coast of Northern California, provide a backdrop for many of the film's most dramatic moments. The filmmakers also use archival footage and home movies to illustrate the surfers' early years and provide a glimpse into the history of the Westside community. Overall, The Westsiders is a powerful and moving portrait of a group of surfers and their community. The film doesn't shy away from the darker aspects of their lives, but it also celebrates their resilience and the bond they share through their love of surfing. Whether you're a fan of surfing or not, this film offers a fascinating look into a unique subculture and the people who inhabit it.