Momentum Generation (2018)

About Momentum Generation

"Momentum Generation" is a documentary film released in 2018. The film gives a deep insight into the lives of a group of teenage friends who revolutionized professional surfing in the 1990s. These passionate and talented teens took an age-old sport to new dimensions, changing it forever. The Momentum Generation turned their fun-filled pastime into a mainstream sport, by taking risks and doing what no one else dared to imagine.

Making / Production

Produced by Robert Redford, Laura Michalchyshyn, and others, it is directed by accomplished documentary filmmakers Jeff Zimbalist and Michael Zimbalist. The Zimbalist brothers have used a mix of archival footage and present-day interviews to craft this riveting documentary.

Actors

• Rob Machado: As himself, Rob portrays the surfer's life with authenticity, showing both the fame and challenges of professional surfing.
• Kelly Slater: Playing himself, Kelly presents his inspiring journey from a teenager to becoming an 11-time World Surf League Champion.
• Shane Dorian: As himself, Shane combines humility and ambition in his portrayal of a surfing legend.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• "Momentum Generation" was originally intended only for an HBO television audience, but it was so well received that it was released theatrically.
• The film covers various controversies including competition among friends, ego clashes, substance abuse, and tragedies; but overall stays positive and inspirational.

Awards

The film received the award for 'Best Feature Documentary' at the Malibu Film Festival in 2018. It also won the audience award at the Maui Film Festival the same year.

Quotes

• "We didn’t care about money, about fame; it was about the pure joy of doing something you loved." - Kelly Slater
• "You can't stop the waves, but you can learn to surf." - Rob Machado

Music, Soundtrack

• The film features a surf-rock soundtrack including Pearl Jam and Soundgarden, reflecting the era of the 90s.