Films have the ability to reach an audience and compel them to feel deep emotions, act on making the world a better place, and even change how they view and interpret the world. Not to mention they also provide hours of entertainment, connection, and culture that can span generations. While there’s a vast array of different films from different styles to genres, this festival focuses on the best of these that inspire stoke while caring for the Earth.
The Coast Film & Music Festival is a haven for outdoors and ocean communities as well as film fanatics and nature lovers. Whether you’re going in person to Laguna Beach or following along online, take a peek at six of the best feature films to look out for at this year’s festival.
Magic Hour
There are few things as magical as the far reaches of planet Earth. Those places that we can only dream about reaching have been captured over the last 27 years and put into this fantastic representation of the collective sum of experiences around this beautiful planet.
Screening time: Thu, Nov 10th, 5:00 PM @ Festival of Arts, Laguna Beach
Through the Doggy Door
From the outside, Hawaii is a paradise – stunning landscapes, beautiful wildlife, and kind people make it a great place to live and explore. But for surfer Sheldon Paishon, it wasn’t all rainbows and sunshine. Watch Sheldon overcome homelessness, poverty, and self belief in this compelling documentary.
Screening time: Sat, Nov 12th, 9:00 AM @ Festival of Arts, Laguna Beach
Available online: November 17, 12:00 AM - November 27, 12:00 AM, 2022
Facing Monsters
The average surfing wave is 9-20 feet high. Kerby Brown decided that wasn’t enough, and took on a monstrous 40-footer, making headlines around the world. Watch this thrilling film as they strive to catch another one.
Screening time: Sat, Nov 12th, 9:00 AM & 5:00 PM @ Festival of Arts, Laguna Beach
Esperanto
Biking isn’t just a way to get to school or around town. Mountain biking is a sport full of speed and grit. It’s something that has become universal as it spans languages, cultures, and distances. Esperanto explores this two-wheeled language and what it means to those that participate in it.
Screening time: Fri, Nov 11th, 9:00 AM & 5:00 PM @ Festival of Arts, Laguna Beach
Easy Slider
Some feature films don’t need hours to get their point across. Easy Slider manages to do it at an expert level in just 40 minutes. If you enjoy skimboarding or are curious to learn more about it, this is the one for you.
Screening time: Sun, Nov 13th, 11:00 AM & 5:00 PM @ Festival of Arts, Laguna Beach (SOLD OUT)
The Yin and Yang of Gerry Lopez
If you get stressed out by a big wave when surfing, you’re not Gerry Lopez. Mr. Pipeline’s story is one that’s almost too good to believe, and a true can’t-miss.
Screening time: Sat, Nov 12th, 9:00 AM & 5:00 PM @ Festival of Arts, Laguna Beach
Key Takeaways
- The magic of the outdoors is that it can and should be enjoyed by all, no matter our differences.
- There’s a place for you in any outdoor community that calls your name.
- The stories of those who tackled the great outdoors and won can teach us more about ourselves and our cultures than most other mediums, while altering the way we view life around us.
