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The Endless Summer

Documentary

RatingRatingRatingRatingRating5.0

DirectorBruce Brown

ProducerBruce Brown

ScreenwriterBruce Brown

DistributorNew Line Home Video [us], Image Entertainment Inc.

Release Date DateJun 15, 1966, Original

LanguageEnglish

Runtime1h 32m

Introduction

Documentary filmmaker Bruce Brown, himself a competition-level surfer, follows surfers Michael Hynson and Robert August on an around-the-world surfing adventure. With Brown's wry, sardonic narration and a twangy, guitar-driven instrumental soundtrack by The Sandals playing over the silent footage, Mike and Rob leave their California home to visit Hawaii, Australia, South Africa and other secluded surfing spots in a search for the surfer's holy grail that Brown dubs "The Perfect Wave."

Critics Reviews

William J. Nazzaro4.4

406

Aug 19, 2021
The Endless Summer is a captivating documentary that transcends the sport of surfing, making it enjoyable for all audiences. Filmmaker Bruce Brown follows surfers Michael Hynson and Robert August as they embark on a global quest for "The Perfect Wave." Brown's wry, humorous narration combined with The Sandals' twangy, guitar-driven soundtrack enhances the experience. The silent footage beautifully captures exquisite surfing locales from Hawaii to South Africa. Even if you have no interest in surfing, this film's charm and adventure will undoubtedly engage and entertain you. It’s not just a surfing documentary; it’s a mesmerizing journey around the world.

Ian Buckwalter3.5

342

Jul 25, 2014
"The Endless Summer" masterfully combines elements of surfing film, travelogue, anthropological study, and wildlife documentary. Bruce Brown's wry narration, paired with The Sandals' twangy, guitar-driven instrumental soundtrack, creates a captivating atmosphere. Following surfers Michael Hynson and Robert August, Brown captures their quest for "The Perfect Wave" across Hawaii, Australia, South Africa, and other secluded spots. The film visually taps into the wanderlust that drives us to escape the mundane, offering a vicarious journey to far-flung beaches. This documentary not only showcases stunning surfing scenes but also delves into the cultural and natural landscapes of the exotic locations visited.
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