Nervous Laughter

Released in 2017, "Nervous Laughter" is a remarkably enduring and compelling documentary film that provides a deep insight into the lives of five very important figures in the 21st-century professional surfing world. Starring Albee Layer, Kai Lenny, Billy Kemper, Matt Meola, and Torrey Meister, the film embraces a unique perspective that celebrates the spirit of adventurism and perilous challenges nurtured in the giant waves of Maui's north shore in Hawaii.

Directed by Dan Norkunas and promoted by Take Shelter Productions, "Nervous Laughter" is not just a film about surfing. Rather, it excavates the enticing world of wave riders to shed light on the human spirit and its struggle and yearning for an extreme level of thrill originated from embracing nature's most humbling force – colossal oceanic waves.

In the film, the charismatic Albee Layer appears as an unstoppable force who relentlessly pushes the envelope. Renowned as the first surfer to land a backside 540, Layer fuels the suspenseful drama with his heart-stopping stunts on intimidating Maui waves. Much like Layer, Kai Lenny, another protagonist in the film, impresses with his versatility across a range of watersports, from surfing and windsurfing to SUP (stand-up paddleboarding) and kitesurfing.

Billy Kemper, another star in this ensemble cast, further engages the audience with his unfazed approach to taking on the monstrous waves. Kemper is a big wave surfer from Hawaii who's made a name for himself on the World Surf League's Big Wave Tour.

Contrasting these brave exploits, Matt Meola shines with his acrobatic finesse and fierce aerial tactics, taking freestyle surfing to a whole new level. His aerial antics add another layer of thrill to this high-adrenaline documentary. Meanwhile, Torrey Meister, another champion surfer, impresses with his understated elegance and prowess on those humbling Maui waves.

"Nervous Laughter" is a reunion between friends who share a common love and respect for the sea. As each of these surfers narrates their individual experiences, the film becomes a confessional, detailing the personal evolution of each surfer and how they've grown through their unparalleled passion for surfing.

Set against the backdrop of "Jaws" – the infamous Peahi surf break on Maui island – "Nervous Laughter" grounds itself in a whirlwind of elusive emotions, fear, camaraderie, competition and joy that all puppeteer the surfers' thrilling performances on their boards. Each wave summons a duel with nature not just for the ultimate adrenaline rush but also for the success and sheer gratification each ride promises.

The film also works as a celebration of Maui's local surf culture, displaying impressive camaraderie among the surfers, all of whom share a deep love and respect for the sea and their home island. Despite the individuality each surfer displays, there is a collective experience that gets beautifully captured, making the film more than a compilation of rides on monster waves.

"Nervous Laughter" also chronicles the relentless pursuit of challenging one's limits. It illustrates the bonding that builds between these thrill-seekers in the face of shared peril and intense rivals. The film speaks to the vulnerability and resilience of these daredevil wave riders, their seemingly invincible spirits, and their humble submission to the mighty forces of nature.

Visually enthralling, "Nervous Laughter" captures the raw power and beauty of the ocean, spinning an unforgettable tale of extreme sports, adventure, and the human spirit's relentless need for adrenaline. The captivating cinematography combined with the engaging narrative of brotherhood makes it a must-watch documentary for surf enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.

In a nutshell, "Nervous Laughter" is a reflection of life around the sensational world of big wave surfing. It underlines the essence of pushing your limits, conquering fears, and the overwhelming power of nature. It’s a film about risk and camaraderie, the hazardous pursuit of happiness, and lives lived on the edge, seemingly inviting viewers to ask: What’s life without a dash of risk, a touch of thrill, and heaps of nervous laughter?