Morning of the Earth: A Timeless Surfing Film and Its Enduring Legacy

“Morning of the Earth,” a 1972 surf film directed by Alby Falzon, isn’t just a movie; it’s a cultural artifact. It captures a pivotal moment in surfing history, showcasing a simpler, more soulful connection between surfers and the ocean. This article explores the film’s impact, its significance in shaping surf culture, and why it continues to resonate with audiences decades later. The phrase “Morning of the Earth” evokes a sense of renewal, purity, and a return to nature, themes deeply ingrained in the film’s narrative and visuals. This is the core of what makes the movie so special, and why it has stood the test of time.

The Dawn of a New Era in Surfing

Before “Morning of the Earth,” surf films primarily focused on high-performance surfing and competitive events. Falzon’s vision was different. He sought to capture the essence of surfing as a lifestyle, a spiritual pursuit, and a harmonious relationship with the environment. The film eschews the commercialism that was beginning to creep into the sport and instead celebrates the freedom and simplicity of living close to the land and the sea.

The film follows surfers as they travel through Australia, Bali, and Hawaii, seeking out uncrowded waves and embracing a counter-culture lifestyle. There is a strong sense of community and shared passion among the surfers, who are portrayed as artists, craftsmen, and free spirits. The film’s impact was immediate and profound, influencing generations of surfers and shaping the aesthetic of surf culture.

Alby Falzon’s Vision: Capturing the Soul of Surfing

Alby Falzon’s genius lies in his ability to capture the intangible – the feeling of riding a wave, the camaraderie of surfers, and the beauty of untouched landscapes. He used innovative filming techniques for the time, including slow-motion shots and aerial perspectives, to create a visually stunning and immersive experience. The film’s soundtrack, featuring original music by G. Wayne Thomas, Brian Cadd, and Taman Shud, is equally iconic, perfectly complementing the visuals and enhancing the film’s overall mood.

Falzon’s approach was deeply personal and authentic. He lived among the surfers, sharing their experiences and capturing their stories with genuine empathy. This intimate perspective is what sets “Morning of the Earth” apart from other surf films. It’s not just about the waves; it’s about the people, the places, and the spirit of surfing. The film is more than just a collection of surfing footage; it’s a cinematic poem that celebrates the beauty and simplicity of life.

The Locations: Australia, Bali, and Hawaii

The film’s diverse locations play a crucial role in its appeal. Australia provides a backdrop of rugged coastline and powerful surf, while Bali offers a glimpse into a more exotic and spiritual surfing culture. Hawaii, the birthplace of surfing, adds a sense of history and tradition. Each location is presented as a unique paradise, offering its own distinct challenges and rewards for the surfers.

The Bali segment of “Morning of the Earth” is particularly significant, as it introduced many Western audiences to the island’s stunning waves and vibrant culture. The film helped to put Bali on the map as a world-class surfing destination, contributing to the growth of tourism and the development of the island’s surfing industry.

The Soundtrack: An Integral Part of the Experience

The soundtrack of “Morning of the Earth” is as iconic as the film itself. Featuring original songs by G. Wayne Thomas, Brian Cadd, and Taman Shud, the music perfectly captures the mood and spirit of the film. The songs are mellow, melodic, and reflective, complementing the visuals and enhancing the overall sense of tranquility and freedom. The music is a key element in the film’s enduring appeal, transporting viewers to a simpler, more carefree time.

The soundtrack was groundbreaking for its time, blending elements of folk, rock, and psychedelic music to create a unique and unforgettable sonic landscape. Many of the songs have become classics in their own right, and continue to be enjoyed by surfers and music lovers around the world. The influence of the “Morning of the Earth” soundtrack can be heard in countless surf films and documentaries that have followed.

The Surfers: Pioneers of a New Era

“Morning of the Earth” features a cast of talented and charismatic surfers, many of whom were pioneers of a new era in the sport. Nat Young, Stephen Cooney, and Michael Peterson are among the surfers who are prominently featured in the film, showcasing their unique styles and personalities. These surfers were not just athletes; they were artists, innovators, and rebels, challenging the established norms of surfing and pushing the boundaries of what was possible on a wave.

The film captures these surfers at a pivotal moment in their careers, as they were transitioning from traditional longboards to shorter, more maneuverable boards. This shift in equipment allowed for a more dynamic and expressive style of surfing, which is beautifully showcased in the film. The surfers in “Morning of the Earth” embodied the spirit of innovation and experimentation that defined the era.

The Film’s Enduring Legacy

“Morning of the Earth” has had a profound and lasting impact on surf culture. It helped to popularize the idea of surfing as a lifestyle, a spiritual pursuit, and a connection to nature. The film’s message of simplicity, freedom, and harmony resonated with audiences around the world, inspiring countless people to take up surfing and embrace a more sustainable way of life. The film’s influence can be seen in countless surf films, documentaries, and advertising campaigns that have followed.

The film’s enduring appeal lies in its authenticity and its timeless message. It captures a moment in time when surfing was still relatively pure and unspoiled, before the pressures of commercialism and over-crowding began to take their toll. “Morning of the Earth” reminds us of the beauty and simplicity of surfing, and the importance of preserving our natural environment. It is a film that continues to inspire and uplift, reminding us of the power of surfing to connect us to ourselves, to each other, and to the planet.

The Message of Environmentalism in “Morning of the Earth”

“Morning of the Earth” subtly promotes environmentalism by showcasing the beauty of unspoiled natural environments and the surfers’ deep respect for the ocean. The film implicitly critiques the destructive forces of industrialization and urbanization, suggesting that a simpler, more sustainable way of life is not only possible but also desirable. The film’s message of environmentalism is particularly relevant today, as we face the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation.

The film’s portrayal of surfers living in harmony with nature serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of protecting our planet. By showcasing the beauty of untouched landscapes and the interconnectedness of all living things, “Morning of the Earth” inspires viewers to become more conscious of their impact on the environment and to take action to protect it. The film’s legacy extends beyond surfing; it encourages a broader commitment to environmental stewardship.

“Morning of the Earth” Today

Even decades after its release, “Morning of the Earth” continues to be celebrated as a masterpiece of surf cinema. It has been digitally remastered and re-released, allowing new generations of surfers to experience its beauty and power. The film is frequently screened at surf festivals and film events around the world, and it remains a source of inspiration for surfers and filmmakers alike.

The film’s message of simplicity, freedom, and environmentalism is as relevant today as it was in 1972. In a world that is increasingly complex and chaotic, “Morning of the Earth” offers a refreshing reminder of the importance of connecting with nature, pursuing our passions, and living a life of purpose. The film’s lasting influence underscores its importance in the history of surfing and its enduring appeal to audiences worldwide. The “Morning of the Earth” represents a time capsule of surfing’s golden age, a reminder of simpler times and the pure joy of riding waves. Even now, the Morning of the Earth and its message are cherished. The film Morning of the Earth is a must-watch for any surfing enthusiast or anyone interested in counter-culture films. The impact of Morning of the Earth can still be felt in surfing today. You can easily find Morning of the Earth online and enjoy it. This film, Morning of the Earth, is a true masterpiece. The beauty of Morning of the Earth is timeless. Morning of the Earth showcases the essence of surfing culture. The story of Morning of the Earth is captivating. The film Morning of the Earth is highly recommended. The legacy of Morning of the Earth is remarkable.

[See also: The History of Surfing]
[See also: Best Surf Movies of All Time]
[See also: Surfing and Environmentalism]