Faces of Europe – The Wave-Riders of San Sebastian

Synopses

The documentary portrays a surfer, his outlook on life generally and on his native region specifically. We meet him during an extremely important time of year: the "Semana Grande": the great week long Festival of San Sebastian. In addition to showing the natural landscape, impressive cinematographic images of beach life and the Festival celebrations, the problematic nature of the Basque Country is considered: Half of the population seeks independence from Spain; the other half favors total integration. For most of the surfers the political and social realities of the Basque Country play little role in their lives. As Alain Gonfaus sums it up: "For me, surfing means relaxation and satisfaction. When I climb into the water, I can leave reality behind me."

Filmographic details

Year 2006
Country Spain
Rights Worldwide
Category
Runtime 26 Min.
Channel Arte / ZDF
Author Paul Weber
Director Paul Weber
Camera Ernst Krell