Complete Guide to Film, Music and Special Events
(subject to change)
Wednesday, November 8, 2023
OPENING NIGHT AT HOBIE SURF SHOP PRESENTED BY PATAGONIA
The opening night of the Coast Film & Music Festival is an electric celebration of storytelling and creativity. Filmmakers, artists, and music enthusiasts come together united in their appreciation for the art of storytelling, all designed to ignite the imagination and foster a sense of community. Opening night is a testament to the transformative power of film, music, and art, setting the stage for a festival that promises to inspire, entertain, educate and leave a lasting impact on all who attend.
Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Hobie Surf Shop, Laguna Beach
“Wild Life” (93 min.)
From Oscar-winning filmmakers Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin, “Wild Life” follows conservationist Kris Tompkins on an epic, decades-spanning love story as wild as the landscapes she dedicated her life to protecting. After falling in love in mid-life, Kris and the outdoorsman and entrepreneur Doug Tompkins left behind the world of the massively successful outdoor brands they’d helped pioneer like Patagonia, The North Face, and Esprit, and turned their attention to a visionary effort to create National Parks throughout Chile and Argentina. “Wild Life” chronicles the highs and lows of their journey to effect the largest private land donation in history.
MUSIC: Par Avion
Panelist Highlights: Surfer, Filmmaker, and Patagonia Rock Climbing Ambassador Timmy O’Neill; Vissla Vice President of International and Sustainability Chris Evans.
Thursday, November 9th
COAST SUMMIT ECO-SUSTAINABILITY SYMPOSIUM
“GET OUTSIDE” Filmmaker Showcase
Coast Summit: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Evening Films: 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM
Location: Festival of Arts
Coast Summit Eco-Sustainability Symposium
Kicking off Coast Film & Music Festival at the Festival of Arts is the inaugural Coast Summit. Sponsored by Coast Film Foundation in conjunction with A New Earth Project and The Momentum, this new program is a full-day symposium featuring distinguished filmmakers, athletes and environmental experts who will collectively explore the profound influence of storytelling on environmental stewardship and social transformation.
Speakers (*Subject to change*)
Ben Warner | Cofounder Coast Film & Music Festival
Chris Mauro | Journalist, Storyteller, Environmental advocate
Chris Miyahsiro | Storyteller, Ocean Advocate
Dr. Chad Nelsen | Surfer, climber, CEO of the Surfrider Foundation
Dan Marriner | Professor of Sustainable Design, Laguna College of Art and Design
Dave Winslow | Founder, The Momentum
Don Meek | Managing Director, A New Earth Project
Greg Long I Iconic Big Wave Surfer; Activist
Hallie Jones | Outreach Director, Crystal Cove Conservancy
Heidi Sanborn | Founder, National Stewardship Action Council
Jeremy Jones | Professional Snowboarder, Climate Activist, Founder of Protect Our Winters
John Baker | Director, Wild-Aid Program
Josh “Bones” Murphy | Award winning Filmmaker, Storyteller
Kai Lenny | Professional Surfer, Ocean Advocate
Kimmy Fasani | Professional Snowboarder; Climate Activist
Obi Kaufmann| Author; Environmental Advocate
Pat Parnell | Host, Coast Film and Music Festival
Ramon Navarro | Professional Big Wave Surfer; Ocean Activist
Sarah Bedfole I Marine Scientist, Oceana
Wes Carter | President, Atlantic Packaging; Founder, A New Earth Project
Coast Summit Partners
A New Earth Project, The Momentum, Group Y, Laguna College of Art and Design, Revelshine Wine, Grey Whale Gin, Jedediah Coffee
The “Get Outside” theme continues with films showcasing the extraordinary adventures awaiting beyond our doorsteps. These films invite us to embark on transformative journeys, inspiring a deep appreciation for nature’s beauty and the boundless possibilities that come with exploration. “Get Outside” Film Screenings serve as a powerful call to action, encouraging us all to step outside, embrace the world’s wonders, and find our own stories in the heart of nature. It celebratesthe profound connection between humanity and the natural world, reminding us of the endless adventures that await under the open sky.
Featured Film Screenings:
GLOBAL PREMIERE “The Hypocrite” (short)
“The Hypocrite” is a film that boldly confronts the concept of imperfect advocacy within the realm of snow sports. By delving into the perceived hypocrisy of utilizing planes, cars, helicopters, and snowmobiles as means of mountain access, the film explores topics such as consumption, individualized guilt, the real measurement of carbon footprints on an individual versus collective scale, and presents forward-looking alternatives for the future.
DOMESTIC PREMIERE “Yamnasuka: The Ragged Edge” (80 min)
Follow two modern day adventurers as they embark on a rock climbing journey through time, celebrating the rich history and folklore of one of Canada’s most iconic climbing cliffs as they pay homage to the colorful characters who have etched their names into its vertical walls since the 1950s.
“4Dwn” (16:49 min)
4DWN is a service-driven, value-based, nonprofit organization and community resilience hub rooted in skate culture. It is headquartered in South Dallas, in one of the nation’s largest food, infrastructure, and recreational deserts. CEO and co-founder, Rob Cahill, makes it 4DWN’s mission to sustainably foster the health of kids, families, communities and environment providing free programs emphasizing recreation, education, cultivation and conservation.
“Corners of the Earth Kamchatka” (90min)
Join filmmakers Spencer Frost and Guy Williment and surfers Letty Mortenson and Fraser Dovell on their expedition to Kamchatka in the remote far east of Russia, in search of undiscovered waves along the frozen coastline. Despite encountering hurdles, including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, they embarked on an unexpected adventure, discovering the best of human spirit amidst adversity. From Mi-8 helicopters to frozen campsites, their surf trip became an extraordinary journey.
Panelist Highlights: Director John Price, Pro Skateboarder Rob Cahill, Skateboarding Legend Mike Crum, Director Danny Schmidt, Hayley Nendall, Pro Skier Amie Engerbretson, Pro Snowboarder Jeremy Jones, Executive Producer Todd Jones, Big Wave Surfer Kai Lenny, Surfrider CEO Dr. Chad Nelsen, Filmmaker/Photographer Guy Williment.
MUSIC: The Great North Special: A fresh seven-piece jam band based out of Laguna Beach, CA playing a special blend of psych-rock, country-blues, & funk-soul originals, covers, and improvisations guaranteed to shake your caboose.
AFTER PARTY: Sanford Street at Marine Room Tavern: Sanford Street is a four-piece rock band based in West LA and mixes Rock, Funk, and Jazz influences with a driving and energetic beat to create a dynamic, unique, and funky sound.
Friday, November 10th
“OCEANS AND SURF” Filmmaker Showcase
Friday’s screenings are more than just films; they are a full-throttle immersion into the heart and soul of surf culture. Join us and get ready to be stoked, as we pay homage to the boundless allure of the sea, honor the thrill of the ride, and unite with fellow wave-riders who share our passion for that endless blue adventure. Don’t miss it, because the stoke is about to hit an all-time high!
Time: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Location: Festival of Arts
#GetOutside: Festival goers are invited to explore our stunning coastline on a group kayaking trip sponsored by La Vida Laguna and Willbo. tickets and details
Follow The Light Surf Photography Awards
In loving memory of the legendary surf photographer and longtime SURFING magazine photo editor, Larry ‘Flame’ Moore, The Follow The Light Foundation grants awards to support aspiring surf photographers.
Feature Film Screenings:
PREMIERE “Trilogy New Wave”- Executive Producer CFMF co-founder Enich Harris: (75 min.)
Three elite surfers travel to eight remote destinations searching for pristine waves and an escape from the stress of competition as they balance their careers with a desire to rediscover the joy of surfing free from contest scores. From pastime to mainstream sport, the film charts a fresh take on surfing’s present.
“Absent Without Leave” (20 min.)
Follow the ragtag Roark crew as they get lost and discover all of New Zealand’s South Island. Scoring some of the best swell seen in decades, they brave the winter freeze camping out in old Defenders, chasing waves in bush planes, and having one helluva time while they’re at it.
“The Right to Joy” (20 min.)
Izzy Sederbaum overcame anxiety and anti-trans prejudice by rediscovering the love of biking and advocating for diversity and inclusion in the sport after surviving a nearly fatal cougar attack while cycling.
Panelist Highlights: Executive Producer Enich Harris, Pro Surfers Seth Moniz, Griffin Colapinto, Filmmaker Taylor Steele, Director Andrew McKenzie, ROARK Founder Ryan Hitzel, Surfer/Journalist Nate Zoller, Naturalist/Author Obi Kaufmann, Filmmaker and Patagonia Rock Climbing Ambassador Timmy O’Neill, Pro Skateboarders Rob Cahill and Mike Crum.
MUSIC: Recording artist Matt Costa and friends in the afternoon
AFTER PARTY: DJ Cameron Jonas spins at Laguna Beach Beer Company
Saturday, November 11th
“Mountains & Snow” Filmmaker Showcase
Get ready for an epic journey through the world of snow and mountains at Saturday’s Mountains and Snow movie showcase. We’re bringing the breathtaking beauty of snowy peaks, backcountry adventures, and thrilling alpine action to the big screen. Join us for a day filled with high-altitude excitement as we showcase the best snow films that capture the essence of mountain culture. Whether you’re a seasoned winter warrior or simply an admirer of the majestic snow-covered landscapes, this showcase promises a day of exhilarating exploration that will leave you awe-inspired and eager for your next snowy adventure. Don’t miss this opportunity to revel in the mountain magic!
Time: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Location: Festival of Arts
#GetOutside: Join an intimate group of outdoor enthusiasts for a picturesque three-mile fire road hike in the scenic Laguna Beach Hills, offering breathtaking ocean vistas. tickets and details
Featured Film Screenings:
Student Film Showcase Presented By GoPro
WEST COAST PREMIERE – Teton Gravity Research’s “Flying High Again” (60 min.)
In a world, where the snowboard corporatocracy cares more about the next Instagram swipe, TGR and snowboard film director and pioneer, Mike Hatchet, have defied all odds to bring back the annual snowboard film. Featuring a crew of riders who need no introduction, Flying High Again celebrates what matters most: a bomber squad, rowdy soundtrack, and pure unadulterated riding action.
“Black Country Journal” (9 min.)
A skier contemplates his connection to skiing and the mountains. As he hurries through the streets of LA, his path takes a turn after bumping into a jazz musician who helps him discover the correlation between jazz and skiing—an expression of art, skiing, and black culture.
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA PREMIERE “Reflections”
Jamie Anderson is a professional snowboarder who has won 2 Olympic gold medals and 21 X Games medals. The movie follows Anderson’s life and career, as well as her personal outlook on life, her love of snowboarding, and her process of being so dominant. The film also features riding by Elena Hight.
“For the Love of Sea” (12.25 min.)
In Patagonia Films’ For the Love of the Sea, a family pioneers a movement to revive the Welsh coastline and a fishing industry that locals have depended on for decades. The documentary follows Câr y Môr, the first community-owned regenerative ocean farm in Wales. Cultivating versatile crops like seaweed with zero-input techniques, the community reveals the powerful ways that the ocean can help fight climate change and nourish people and their communities.
“Legend Has It” (75 min.)
Ski lore is riddled with stories, sometimes of unknown origin, describing plausible but extraordinary past events. Often shared on chairlifts, the skintrack, or over a beer, these legendary tales, whether it be mythical storm cycles, heroic feats, or whispers of fantastical terrain, all contribute and shape our present experience. For 28 years Teton Gravity Research has been traveling the globe with the best athletes to the most incredible locations often based on this fabled history to uncover the experience…and sometimes creating legends of our own along the way.
Panelist Highlights:
Filmmakers Dana Frankoff, Wyatt Shipp, Jeremy Covallaro, The Ranch’s Farmer Leo, Ecology Center’s Evan Marks, Pro Snowboarder Jeremy Jones, Directors Scott Wynn and Elley Norman, Pro Surfer Dane Gudauskas, Filmmaker Mallory Duncan, Pro Skier Kai Jones, Pro Snowboarder Jamie Anderson.
AFTERNOON MUSIC: The ALIVE and surprise special guests TBA
Named one of Stab Magazine’s 30 Under 30 Culture Shifters of Tomorrow, teen rock sensation The Alive is fronted by Laguna Beach-local Bastian Evans. The trio now plays on stages internationally, in front of giant crowds including Lollapalooza Chile, Ohana Fest, and opened up the main stage at Bottlerock for the Foo Fighters, among dozens of other gigs most bands would envy.
AFTER PARTY: Laguna Beach Beer Company – music TBD
Sunday, November 12th
“MOUNTAIN BIKE” Filmmaker Showcase
Join us for a thrilling Sunday of mountain biking film screenings! Immerse yourself in the adrenaline-pumping world of two-wheeled adventures as we showcase the best mountain biking films on the big screen. Get ready for heart-pounding rides, breathtaking landscapes, and inspiring tales of riders pushing their limits. It’s a cinematic journey that captures the essence of the great outdoors and the spirit of
Time: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Location: Festival of Arts
#GetOutside: Join us for a group ride alongside local and professional riders. Bring your own bike and gear up for an exciting ride together. tickets and details
#GetOutside: Yoga-On-The-Green with favorite Laguna Beach yogi Tim Sensei at the Festival of Arts green grass area tickets and details
Featured Film Screenings:
“26.2 to life” (90 min.)
Filmed inside California’s oldest state prison, 26.2 to Life explores the transformative power of San Quentin’s 1000 Mile Club, in which incarcerated men train for and run a marathon on the dirt and concrete path circling the prison yard.
“Camp Courage” (33 min.)
Made refugees by the war in Ukraine, Olga and her granddaughter Milana travel to a summer camp in the Austrian Alps to test the limits of their own bravery, and to strengthen their growing bond.
Director’s Cut of Director Greg MacGillivray’s “Cities of the Future” (60 min.)
Step 50 years into the future, where smart cities thrive in sustainability. Renewable energy powers us, space-based solar energy is available 24/7, recycling is the norm, and energy-efficient personal pods transport us. Electric flying vehicles eliminate traffic jams. It’s not science fiction but a real-world vision. Explore it in “Cities of the Future,” directed by Greg MacGillivray and Shaun MacGillivray, produced by MacGillivray Freeman Films in collaboration with the American Society of Civil Engineers.
“Hans Rey – Once Upon a Ride in Umbria” (10 min.)
In the late ’90s, trials legend Hans Rey’s global adventures, high-profile commercials, and competitions began taking a toll on his body and mind. Umbria, Italy, captivated him during his travels, and he dreamt of settling there someday. His search led him to Podere il Falco, becoming his Italian home and a business venture. Hans revisited his favorite trails with his EP8-equipped GT Force AMP+ E-MTB to witness how
technology transformed mountain biking over two decades. While he cherished his years in La Dolce Vita, he ultimately embraced new mountain biking challenges, enjoying the ride.
“Nothing’s for Free: The History of Freeride Mountain Biking” (104 min.)
The story of the birth and legacy of freeride mountain biking. Every sport has its Dog Town and Z Boys or Riding Giants. Nothing’s For Free is the real story of the birth and legacy of freeride mountain biking. Chronicling the blue-collar story and rise of a cult sport to a global phenomenon that put the race-driven sport of mountain biking on the map in the world of action sports and the mainstream. Nothing’s for Free features the biggest names in mountain biking, from the early pioneers of adventure to modern-day internet superstars like Danny Macaskill and Brandon Semenuk.
“The Engine Inside” (81 min)
Over the last century, society has confronted the unintended repercussions of a car-dominated culture. “The Engine Inside” delves into the lives of six individuals from varied backgrounds, all dedicated to a timeless machine—the bicycle. Amidst their trials, witness the transformative power of bicycles, shaping lives and fostering a better world. This documentary sheds light on global issues such as climate change, indigenous trauma, socioeconomic disparities, and urban livability. Through these narratives, “The Engine Inside” inspires hope and empowerment, profoundly impacting all who experience it.
Panelist Highlights: Filmmaker Max Lowe, Pro Mountain Bikers Hans Rey, Michael Scott and pioneering Freeride Mountain Biker and Hall of Famer Richie Schley, Director Derek Westerland
MUSIC: COMMON SENSE is known for being one of the first artists to influence the California “surf reggae” movement and an all-time Orange County favorite.
About Coast Film & Music Festival
Coast Film & Music Festival, based in Laguna Beach, California, is an annual celebration of outdoor-inspired cinema, culture, and community. Founded in 2019 by the Coast Film Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit dedicated to purpose-driven filmmaking, our mission is to showcase exceptional films that drive positive change through storytelling, believing that outstanding films can change the world. CFMF’s diverse programming includes films, panels, music, art, and outdoor experiences, leaving audiences entertained, informed, and inspired. We’re committed to nurturing young filmmakers and sharing their unique voices, providing innovative mentoring and inspired educational programs while serving as a powerful cultural and economic engine for Laguna Beach, the county of Orange and beyond. For more details, visit CoastFilmFestival.com.
