I just did an interview for my good friend Chris Gurney and his website.
2. in terms of film-making, who inspires you?
I am certainly not lacking in inspiration, although it is hard to specify with names per se. For this video my driving force has been my own expectations of what should be achieved. If you work as closely with the riders as I did, there is a sense of obligation. I have always wanted to make sure they are shown in the best light. Starting out last year we thought up the concept for the film. Executing the concept has been something entirely different and far, far more difficult. Trying to follow the theme of the film - the documentation of 5 progressive riders over a year travelling the globe - has really pushed me to do everything I can film-wise.
Similarly, it is inspiring to see people in action sports who have managed to pull off a well-delineated and well coordinated idea. Modern Collective (2009) was certainly important because it did this with surfing, bodyboarding’s big brother. That’s It, That’s All (2008) is another example, a film i’m sure Kai Neville took creative influence from.
My friends, more specifically those with an eye through the lens, have also provided direction. I don’t really know why, but whenever we shoot together, I feel a competitive vibe. It’s more a non-specific response though; we just want to get the best out of what’s in front of us. The main additional contributor, Tom Jennings and I have a ridiculous working relationship. We critique each others footage to the point of degradation. But it’s healthy because it means if either of us screw up we will know about it. It promotes me to film better, not just for the guys to surf better. I guess it’s been competitive in that way also.
Nic.
