Customer Reviews

Surf Crazy [VHS]

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Of all the non-"Endless Summer" films in the Bruce Brown Golden Years of Surf Collection, this one has always been my favorite. This is my third time to purchase this movie (my previous two VHS copies were worn out from use at parties). It lacks everything a "quality" film requires - and yet it beats the mainstream by a mile. If you want to feel like you were there (Mazatlan or the North Shore) and you love vintage surf movies, this is it. Pure, honest, classic. This is a must for true soul surfers. (Why only 4 stars? Two words: "Endless Summer" - only ES gets a 5.)

Even before Endless Summer, Bruce Brown was Surf Crazy. You don't even have to be a surfer to get totally stoked off of this DVD. Brown's expert and comic commentary show both his love of surfing and the intimate knowledge he has of the sport and those who ride the waves. This vintage 1959 footage follows four surfers to uncharted breaks in Mexico and then takes us to Hawaii where we are completely in awe of the huge swells. Along the way, Brown takes us on an adventure and introduces us to some of the most unforgettable characters that ever stood on a beach. Brown himself makes a personal appearance to comment on the film. Good thing he's not known for his acting, and the video camera sways a bit... but who cares? Let him have his five minutes on camera. The rest is dedicated to fun and adventure, with a crisp soundtrack that keeps you in the mood. I watched it with a smile the entire time - ooing and awing at some great wipe outs and amazed at how well these guys surfed on those old balsa boards without leashes and scags the size of car hoods. This DVD definitely stoked me and I can't wait to get out in the water in the morning! Shaka!

Bruce Brown is the most famous surf film artist dating back to the late 50s where his films were shown in small auditoriums. This is his second film in the last 50s. Bruce narrates and has a friendly personality. The background music is good but not the typical surf sound to be found three years later. Watch this film to view history. Recognize this is 50s surfing and it's very good but very dated. The surfing was amazingly good for the type boards they used. But still, this is very dated and I found that it didn't hold my interest like other movies like the 70s Bustin Down the Door. Not bad, but very dated.

This documentary can't be from the 50's!! I mean... the COOL slow-mo surfing movements, the way the surfers hang out, the way they dress, the way they look, the way they pick up those HUGE waves!!! COME ON! This documentary is WAY TO COOL to be from the 50's.

P.S: I didn't know that some movie producers used Techno Rock and light Heavy Metal soundtracks back in the 50's.