PE`AHI

Synopsis

"Pe`ahi," Directed by Etienne Aurelius, is his second narrative feature film that takes the audience on an exploratory and emotional arthouse water rollercoaster into the colossal world of big-wave surfing while shedding light on social struggles pertinent to Hawaii. This amalgamation of sports cinema and social commentary serves as an entry point for audiences less acquainted with the Hawaiian milieu but intrigued by its more globally recognized cultural exports, such as surfing – a true testament to the power of mentorship, the bonds of friendship and the resulting immutable force that transcends the fear of mortality.

This film dives into the exhilarating world of big-wave surfing and an unexpected friendship between superstar big-wave surfer Kai Lenny and a 12-year-old homeless named Dustin who has dreams of becoming a professional big-wave surfer so he can afford to get him and his mother out of their current living situation and into a real home. Kai and Dustin embark on an awe-inspiring conquest for Dustin to become the youngest person in history to surf the death-defying 80ft tall wave known as Pe'ahi, aka Jaws. As Dustin nears the end of his first year in big-wave surf training with Kai, one of the biggest swells in recorded history pops up on the swell forecast. Dustin is now faced with the opportunity of a lifetime, and all the elements in place for his dream to become a reality. The only thing left for him to do is survive riding a wave bigger than 60 feet. Pe'ahi is a coming-of-age story with stunning cinematography and a heartfelt narrative; this film captures the resilience, determination, and the universal human yearning for a brighter future.

PRESENTERS

This film is being brought to the American Film Market in collaboration with the E.C.O.H. (Entertainment Collective Of Hawaii), the E.C.O.H.S. (Entertainment Collective Of Hawaii Studios), and Arthouse of Aurelius. For more information, please visit www.TheECOHArchive.com

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