Watch God Went Surfing with the Devil

God Went Surfing with the Devil is a fascinating and engaging documentary that explores the burgeoning surf culture in the Gaza Strip against the backdrop of political strife and turmoil. Released in 2010, the film features a range of perspectives from surfers, academics, journalists, and politicians, as well as breathtaking shots of surfers carving the waves along the coastline of the Middle East.

The film centers around two surfers, Dorian 'Doc' Paskowitz and Matthew Olsen, who both travel to Gaza to explore the surf scene and connect with the local surfers. Despite the dangers and obstacles they face, they are determined to share their love and passion for surfing with the community and to foster an understanding between different cultures.

One of the most powerful aspects of the documentary is its focus on the everyday lives of the people living in Gaza. We see young surfers, both male and female, who are passionate about the sport and who feel a sense of liberation and escape from the harsh realities of their lives when they are out in the water. It's also inspiring to see how these young people are able to come together despite their differences, sharing a passion for surfing and creating a sense of community around the sport.

At the same time, the film highlights the political tensions and conflicts that are a part of everyday life in Gaza. We see footage of Israeli airstrikes and border closures that restrict movement and access to basic supplies, making it difficult for the surf community to purchase equipment and travel to competitions. The film also shows the impact of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict on everyday citizens, particularly the children who are traumatized by the sounds of bombings and gunshots.

Despite these challenges, the surfers in Gaza are determined to follow their passion and to find moments of joy and freedom in a place that is often marked by violence and turmoil. The film offers a nuanced and humanizing portrayal of people living in a conflict zone, highlighting the resilience and courage of those who are determined to pursue their dreams despite the odds.

The documentary also features interviews with experts in various fields who provide context and analysis of the political situation in Gaza. Journalists, academics, and politicians share their insights into the history and complexities of the conflict, shedding light on the root causes of the violence and offering perspectives on potential paths to peace.

God Went Surfing with the Devil is a unique and powerful documentary that offers a glimpse into a world that is rarely seen in the media. It's a testament to the human spirit and the power of sports to bring people together, and it's a reminder that even in the most dire circumstances, there is always hope for a better future.

God Went Surfing with the Devil is a 2010 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 24 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.0.