Unsalted: A Great Lakes Experience

Unsalted: A Great Lakes Experience is a 2005 documentary film that explores the surfing culture on the Great Lakes, one of the largest bodies of freshwater in the world. The film, which was directed by Vince Deur, features professional surfers Joe Curren, Bron Heussenstamm, Colin McPhillips, and others as they navigate the waves on the lakes.

The film starts with a brief history of the Great Lakes and their unique features. The lakes are known for their intense weather patterns and changing wind directions, making surfing on them incredibly challenging. Yet, despite the difficulties, the Great Lakes have become a popular destination for surfers in the Midwest.

Unsalted: A Great Lakes Experience captures the beauty of the lakes and the thrill of surfing in this wild environment. The film takes the audience on a journey through the four seasons and showcases the different moods and colors of the lakes. It features stunning footage of the lakes during the fall, winter, and spring, showing how they transform throughout the year.

The documentary also delves into the surfing community on the Great Lakes. We see surfers from all walks of life, including young and old, male and female, and different ethnic backgrounds, coming together to share their love of surfing. We meet some locals who have been surfing the lakes for decades and have watched the sport grow and evolve over time.

The film also sheds light on the challenges of surfing on the Great Lakes, including the harsh weather conditions, the freezing temperatures, and the dangerous currents. We see surfers getting pounded by the waves, wiping out, and struggling to stay warm in the frigid water. But despite the challenges, it's clear that the surfers are passionate about what they do and are determined to keep surfing on the Great Lakes.

One of the highlights of the film is the stunning cinematography, which captures the beauty and power of the Great Lakes. We see sweeping shots of the lakes, with their vast expanses of water and rugged coastlines. We also see the surfers in action, riding the waves and performing tricks that are just as impressive as those done in the ocean.

Overall, Unsalted: A Great Lakes Experience is a captivating and inspiring documentary that shows how surfing can thrive in unexpected places. The film celebrates the beauty of the Great Lakes and the passion of the surfing community that calls them home. It's a must-see for anyone interested in surfing, nature, or the human spirit of perseverance.