Watch That First Glide

That First Glide is a documentary film that takes the audience on a thrilling journey through the world of big wave surfing. The film stars legendary surfers Laird Hamilton, Dave Kalama, and Brian L. Keaulana as they recount their earliest experiences learning to surf and reflect on the evolution of the sport. The film begins by introducing the audience to the sport of big wave surfing and its roots in Hawaiian culture. Hamilton, Kalama, and Keaulana share their childhood memories of growing up on the North Shore of Oahu and learning to surf on the waves that formed there. They describe the rush of catching their first wave and the feeling of being in perfect harmony with the ocean.

As the film progresses, the focus shifts to the development of big wave surfing as a sport. The surfers discuss the technological advancements in surfboard design and the way that these advancements have allowed for bigger and more challenging waves to be tackled. They also describe the physical and mental preparation required to surf in these extreme conditions.

Throughout the film, the surfers reflect on their most memorable surfing experiences. They recount their closest brushes with death, including Hamilton's famous wipeout at Teahupoo, and talk about the lessons they've learned from these experiences. They also share stories of their most spectacular rides and the feeling of pure exhilaration that comes from successfully navigating a massive wave.

One of the key themes of the film is the importance of respect for the ocean. The surfers describe the way that they have developed a deep understanding of the ocean through years of experience, and emphasize the need for all surfers to approach the ocean with humility and caution. They also discuss the efforts that they have made to give back to the ocean and the importance of protecting the environment for future generations.

Another important theme of the film is the bond between surfers. Hamilton, Kalama, and Keaulana reflect on the friendships that they have formed through their shared passion for surfing, and describe the way that the surfing community supports and encourages one another. They also discuss the importance of passing on their knowledge and experience to the next generation of surfers.

Overall, That First Glide is a compelling and inspiring film that offers an inside look into the world of big wave surfing. The stunning footage of massive waves, combined with the personal stories and insights of the surfers, creates an immersive and captivating experience for the audience. The film is a must-see for anyone interested in surfing or extreme sports, and offers a powerful reminder of the beauty and power of the natural world.

That First Glide is a 2015 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 14 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.6.