Riding Giants (Special Edition)

A great history of big wave riding; the photography, surfing information, reverence for the sport and the surfers who contributed over the years, and the soundtracks.... all add up to a movie I have watched over and over and over without getting tired of it.

I saw this movie at a local Arts Cinema when it first came out and really enjoyed it. I still think the best thing about it is the footage and stories from the early years and pioneers like Greg Noll. When you put it into perspective, those guys were incredibly brave (read: crazy) to get out there on equipment ill-designed for the purpose. This movie gives them the kudos they deserve for pushing the envelope. On that point alone, I recommend buying the DVD because it provides such a nice timecapsule. The modern-day big wave footage (Mavericks, Teauphoo, Hawaii) is also well done and the cherry on top. It's tough to be bored watching Laird and his crew tackle monsters.

At last a surfing movie that is interesting as well as entertaining. 'Giants' spans about 50 years and it's fascinating to see the development in surf boards and surfers. Its a development that's driven by the need for more performance in big waves. It is the surfers, though, that are the heart of the film. Greg Noll, the first of three featured big wave riders, is a hugely likeable character, both then in the sixties and now. The second featured surfer, Jeff Clarke, is the epitome of the man who has committed his whole being to what he loves most, surfing. His courage in surfing alone, for 15 years, the monster called Mavericks, makes one step back and wonder at the man. The third surfer to feature is Laird Hamilton. There is a mystique about Laird. His humility portrayed in his acknowledgement of the bravery of his support team is moving. The footage showing Laird being snatched from the white water by a jet ski racing against an oncoming wall of water is memorable. The credits at the end are a must see. A crusty old Gregg Noll reminiscing about his love for Waiamea Bay with tears in his eyes while informing us that he is not emotional is a delight. The movie moves at a good pace and balances nicely drama, excitement, courage and humour. One is left, at the end, with a feeling of admiration for this strange breed of men who are only truely happy riding really, really big waves

This spectacular documentary tells the story of surfing, from its nascent beginnings in the 1950s as a counter cultural way of life, and even statement about life, to its current status as a multi-billion dollar industry complete with its own superstars with super contracts. It follows the surfing greats like Greg Noll, Laird Hamilton and other big wave riders who tempt fate by careening down 60-foot moving mountains of water. The personal stories, the spectacular photography, the soundtrack, and athleticism and obesssions of the world's best big wave surfers all combine to make a wonderful film. One warning: after viewing this film your life will feel very dull.

A great chronicle of the history and culture of surfing. Profiles of some great surfers who happen to be great people. Great in terms of being the genuine article. They do what they do for the love of doing it and the respect of their peers, not for media attention. Animated interviews, and unbelievable surfing footage. The film is an assemblage of still shots, old super 8 film clips, illustrations, superbly filmed big wave shots from jet-skis and helicopters integrated with interviews with some of the greatest big wave surfers. A film worth multiple viewings.