Mengejar Ombak

Mengejar Ombak, released in 2009, is a riveting Indonesian documentary that profiles Dede Suryana, an admirable professional surfer from Indonesia. Directed by David Adamson, this underdog story beautifully captures the heart and resilience of a young man who has defied all odds to become a national surf icon, all while offering a non-traditional career path for his peers in a country predominantly involved in traditional occupations.

Although the film centers around the extreme sport of surfing, at its core, Mengejar Ombak is a heartfelt story of grit, determination, and dreams. Dede, from his humble beginnings in the small coastal village of West Java, is deeply enamored with the sea and the idea of surfing from an early age on the pristine beaches that surround his home.

Fueled by a love for the ocean and an immense talent for surfing, Dede showcases an indomitable spirit by learning from international surfers who visit his village. With limited resources but an unwavering determination, Dede’s trainings often consist of homemade surfboards and practice runs in the challenging waves of West Java. His journey is not without struggle, but Dede’s perseverance makes his rise on the international surf stage all the more admirable.

The film not only shines a spotlight on Dede's personal struggle and triumphs but beautifully encapsulates the culture and essence of West Java. It shows us Dede's close-knit community, a life immersed in the ocean and the respect they have for the sea. The sweeping cinematography frames the striking landscapes and the untamed beauty of Indonesia’s coastline, taking viewers on an intimate journey through an unexplored aspect of Indonesian life.

From the shores of West Java to the prestigious surf competitions in Bali and Australia, viewers are transported into Dede's world and experiences. David Adamson’s sensitive portrayal allows us to explore the unique challenges that Dede, as an emerging surf professional from a village, faces in these diverse cultural and competitive environments. Far from being one-dimensional, we also see Dede’s interaction with his family and understand their initial adversity, and eventual support, for his chosen career path.

Mengejar Ombak thoughtfully handles the challenges of identity and conflict. It questions the breadth of societal expectations, challenging the conventions of a traditional career path. Moreover, it brings to focus the cultural divide as Dede constantly juggles between two worlds - his village and the cosmopolitan world of professional surfing. All the while, Dede stays true to his roots and brings a taste of his home and his personality wherever he goes.

While Dede and his journey are at the heart of the film, there is a larger commentary on the niche status that surfing holds in Indonesia compared to its global recognition. Surfing is shown to be more than just a sport; it becomes an expression of freedom and a means to broaden one's horizon. The film also highlights issues around environmentalism and conservation, providing thought-provoking commentary on the potential negative impacts of global tourism on local ecosystems.

Infused with a fitting and enchanting soundtrack, Mengejar Ombak further captivates the viewers with its authentic narrative. The music complements the film’s visual storytelling, accentuating the inspiring journey of Dede on his road less traveled journey.

Overall, Mengejar Ombak carefully weaves a narrative around a young man’s passion for surfing and his dream of putting his country on the international surf map. It's an inspiring story of determination, passion, and resilience, set against the stunning backdrop of Indonesia’s coastal vibrance. All these honest and cinematic elements make it a must-watch, regardless of one's interest in surfing.

Mengejar Ombak successfully pushes beyond the domain of a mere surf movie, morphing into a genuinely moving tale of dreams, struggle, and triumph. It not just chronicles Dede Suryana's life but also offers an insightful look at the dynamics of professional surfing, societal norms, the Indonesian culturescape, and the beautiful relationship of man with the sea.