Morning of the Earth: A Timeless Surf Film and its Enduring Legacy
“Morning of the Earth,” Alby Falzon’s 1972 surf film, remains a landmark achievement in cinematic surfing history. More than just a collection of impressive waves and talented surfers, “Morning of the Earth” captured a specific moment in time, a back-to-basics movement away from commercialism and towards a more harmonious existence with nature. Its influence continues to resonate with surfers and filmmakers alike, solidifying its place as a true classic. This article delves into the history, impact, and enduring legacy of “Morning of the Earth.”
The Genesis of a Classic
Alby Falzon, a young and passionate filmmaker, embarked on the “Morning of the Earth” project with a vision to showcase the beauty of surfing and the lifestyle it fostered. Unlike many surf films of the era that focused on high-performance maneuvers and competitive surfing, Falzon sought to capture the essence of a simpler, more authentic surfing experience. He wanted to portray the joy of riding waves in pristine, uncrowded locations, and the connection between surfers and the natural world. This vision led him to explore remote corners of Australia, Bali, and Hawaii, seeking out untouched waves and surfers who embodied this ethos.
Filming Locations and the Search for Untouched Waves
The film’s stunning visuals owe much to its diverse and idyllic locations. Falzon and his crew ventured to places like Bali, still relatively unknown to the surfing world at the time, and remote stretches of the Australian coastline. These locations provided the perfect backdrop for showcasing the beauty and simplicity of surfing. The film’s footage of Uluwatu, Bali, helped put this now-iconic surf spot on the map. The search for these pristine locations was a crucial part of the “Morning of the Earth” ethos, reflecting a desire to escape the crowds and commercialism that were beginning to permeate the surfing world.
The Surfers of “Morning of the Earth”
The surfers featured in “Morning of the Earth” were not just talented athletes; they were individuals who embraced a particular lifestyle. Nat Young, Stephen Cooney, and Michael Peterson, among others, were chosen not only for their surfing prowess but also for their connection to the natural environment. The film portrays them as living in harmony with their surroundings, building their own homes, shaping their own boards, and living off the land. This emphasis on self-sufficiency and a connection to nature was a key element of the film’s appeal.
The Soundtrack: A Musical Masterpiece
Equally as important as the visuals was the film’s iconic soundtrack. Composed by G. Wayne Thomas, Brian Cadd, and Taman Shud, the music perfectly complemented the film’s mood and message. The soundtrack featured acoustic guitars, mellow vocals, and a distinctly Australian sound. The songs evoked a sense of freedom, tranquility, and connection to the earth, further enhancing the film’s overall impact. The “Morning of the Earth” soundtrack became a hit in its own right, cementing the film’s place in popular culture. Many consider the soundtrack to be a significant part of what makes the film so special and memorable.
The Influence of the Music on the Film’s Tone
The music of “Morning of the Earth” is inseparable from the film’s overall tone and message. The gentle melodies and introspective lyrics create a sense of peace and serenity, reflecting the surfers’ connection to nature. The soundtrack helped to elevate the film beyond a simple surf movie, transforming it into a more profound exploration of lifestyle and values. The music underscored the film’s themes of simplicity, freedom, and a rejection of commercialism, making it a powerful statement about the surfing lifestyle.
Themes and Cultural Impact
“Morning of the Earth” resonated with audiences for its exploration of deeper themes beyond just surfing. The film touched on themes of environmentalism, anti-materialism, and a search for a more authentic way of life. These themes were particularly relevant in the early 1970s, a time of social and political upheaval. The film’s message of living in harmony with nature struck a chord with many viewers who were disillusioned with mainstream society. This contributed to the film’s enduring popularity and its status as a counter-cultural classic. The film’s influence can still be seen today in the surfing world and beyond.
Environmentalism and the Back-to-Basics Movement
“Morning of the Earth” can be seen as an early example of environmental consciousness in surf culture. The film’s portrayal of surfers living in harmony with nature helped to raise awareness of the importance of protecting the environment. The film’s message aligned with the broader back-to-basics movement of the time, which encouraged people to simplify their lives, reconnect with nature, and reject consumerism. The surfers in the film embodied this ethos, building their own homes, shaping their own boards, and living off the land. This resonated with audiences who were seeking a more sustainable and fulfilling way of life. The film serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting and preserving the natural world, a message that is perhaps even more relevant today.
Challenging Commercialism in Surfing
The film also offered a critique of the growing commercialism in surfing. By showcasing surfers who were living outside the mainstream, “Morning of the Earth” presented an alternative to the increasingly corporate and competitive world of professional surfing. The film celebrated the joy of surfing for its own sake, rather than as a means to fame or fortune. This message resonated with many surfers who felt that the soul of surfing was being lost to commercial interests. “Morning of the Earth” helped to inspire a counter-movement that sought to preserve the authenticity and spirit of surfing.
The Enduring Legacy of “Morning of the Earth”
Decades after its release, “Morning of the Earth” continues to inspire surfers, filmmakers, and anyone seeking a more meaningful connection with nature. The film’s timeless message and stunning visuals have cemented its place as a true classic. Its influence can be seen in countless surf films and documentaries that have followed, and its themes continue to resonate with contemporary audiences. “Morning of the Earth” is more than just a surf film; it is a cultural touchstone that captures a specific moment in time and offers a timeless message of simplicity, freedom, and connection to the earth. The impact of “Morning of the Earth” on surf culture is undeniable. The film continues to be shown at surf festivals and film screenings around the world, introducing new generations to its message and beauty.
Influence on Subsequent Surf Films
“Morning of the Earth” set a new standard for surf filmmaking. Its emphasis on stunning visuals, evocative music, and deeper themes influenced countless filmmakers who followed. Many surf films have attempted to capture the same sense of freedom, simplicity, and connection to nature that “Morning of the Earth” so effectively conveyed. The film’s innovative use of slow-motion cinematography and its focus on the beauty of the natural world have also been widely imitated. “Morning of the Earth” remains a benchmark against which other surf films are often judged.
Relevance in the Modern World
In an increasingly complex and fast-paced world, the message of “Morning of the Earth” remains as relevant as ever. The film’s themes of environmentalism, anti-materialism, and a search for a more authentic way of life resonate with contemporary audiences who are seeking meaning and purpose in their lives. The film serves as a reminder of the importance of connecting with nature, simplifying our lives, and pursuing our passions. “Morning of the Earth” offers a vision of a more sustainable and fulfilling way of life, one that is grounded in respect for the environment and a commitment to living in harmony with the natural world.
In conclusion, “Morning of the Earth” is more than just a surf film; it’s a cultural artifact that continues to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide. Its timeless message of simplicity, freedom, and connection to the earth ensures its enduring legacy for generations to come. The film’s influence on surf culture, filmmaking, and environmental awareness is undeniable, solidifying its place as a true masterpiece. The impact of “Morning of the Earth” will continue to be felt for many years to come. [See also: The History of Surf Films] [See also: Environmentalism in Surfing] [See also: The Best Surf Spots in Bali]
