Hangs Upon Nothing

Hangs Upon Nothing is a visually stunning independent film, which is a profound exploration of the life, spirit, and soul of surfing. It adopts a sophisticated and artistic approach, showcasing the authentic beauty of surfing, islands, and traditional surf cultures.

This cinematic masterpiece was released in 2014 and directed by Jeremy Rumas. It defies the usual and traditional fast-paced, action-filled portrayal of surfing, instead providing a meditative and introspective look into the sport and the people who dedicate their lives to the ocean's waves. Hangs Upon Nothing is a result of the director's decade-long labor of love, making it a testament to independent filmmaking at its finest.

Michael Kew's original score is an integral part of the film. His music, which is a mixture of pleasant surf rock and more contemplative tunes, enhances the aesthetic appeal of the scenes. His soundtracks complement the story and adds another layer of character to the narrative. Along with the melodious background music, the film's minimalistic use of dialogue helps to set it apart, making the moving visuals the forefront of the narrative.

Hangs Upon Nothing follows the lives and journeys of various surfers scattered around the globe, featuring larger-than-life surf characters like Mikala and Daniel Jones, who call Hawaii their home. The film portrays not only the adrenaline-fueled thrill of surfing itself but also the unique and deeply ingrained surf cultures throughout the globe, including the Indonesian islands, where the sport is practically a way of life.

Jeremy Rumas, himself a surfer as well as a filmmaker, handsomely filmed all scenes using 16mm cameras, adding an old-school, gritty feel to the whole depiction. The motion picture relays the passion, fear, courage, and respect that these athletes have for the unpredictable and immensely powerful ocean. The setting becomes a character in itself, with the stunning azure waves and pristine beaches acting as the central stage for the surfers' daring feats.

The centerpiece of Hangs Upon Nothing is not the thrill-packed action but the exploration of the surfers' connections with the ocean and their love and respect for it. Various high-profile surfers describe their experiences and emotions about surfing in reverential tones as they discuss their life, the sea, and how surfing has shaped them as individuals.

Perhaps the most striking aspect of Hangs Upon Nothing is its artistic approach to the sport. The film is rich with poetry, both literally and visually. The movie's narration, which is lyrical and thoughtful in tone, functions like a melodic poem that ties the film together, further distinguishing Hangs Upon Nothing from most traditional surf films.

The film operates outside the parameters of time and place, giving it a dreamlike quality. The remarkable cinematography only adds to this dreamy perception, as scenes capture the beauty of the environment, the crystal-clear waves, and the vibrant, colorful island life. This film makes the audience feel as if they are actually there, smelling the salty air and hearing the crashing waves.

Hangs Upon Nothing is not just a documentary. It's an exploration of the depth and breadth of human experience, surf culture, and a love letter to Mother Nature herself. More profound and slower-paced than your average surf film, Hangs Upon Nothing is kind of a visual poem that extols not just the beauty of surfing but also the undeniable rhythm of the ocean that calls these athletes.

In a nutshell, Hangs Upon Nothing is a beautifully shot, philosophical exploration of surfing and those it inspires. By deviating from the traditional approach to portraying the sport, it provides a unique viewing experience that is poignant and compelling, making it a must-watch for any surf lover or a fan of independent cinema.