Riding Giants Blu-ray Review

The video presentation of the Blu-ray of "Riding Giants," though rooted in a variety of sources ranging from archival footage to more modern digital captures, retains an authentic feel that aligns closely with filmmaker Stacy Peralta's intent. The 1080p, 1.85:1-framed transfer preserves this eclectic mix, ensuring that colors and black levels remain natural and consistent with the source material. However, viewers should note that the outcome is a visually rough experience characterized by graininess, pixelation, banding, and occasional artifacts due to the historical and amateur filming techniques employed. This isn’t necessarily detrimental; in fact, the grain and the imperfections contribute to the film's mystique, with older footage keeping its documentary essence intact while newer interviews, despite their clearer presentation, still mirror the original gritty aesthetic.

Technically speaking, the effort to bring older footage into the high-definition realm is noteworthy. The newer filmed segments, mostly static interviews, benefit significantly but are still hampered by soft edges, a lack of pristine detail, and moderate grain that at times detracts from finer details. These segments were likely stylized intentionally to blend cohesively with the archival clips. While artifacting and banding are occasionally present, they seldom disrupt the overall viewing experience. The film’s visual elements fluctuate in terms of white levels, contrast stability, and cleanliness due to the diverse array of film stocks and ages of footage used, providing a raw, dynamic visual journey through the eras documented.

Overall, "Riding Giants" on Blu-ray maintains a thematic visual consistency that enhances its historical and raw storytelling approach. While not a demonstration piece for advanced home theater setups because of its inherent video limitations and average audio quality, the Blu-ray effectively captures the director’s vision and should be appreciated for its authentic representation of big-wave surfing history.

The audio presentation of the Blu-ray version of "Riding Giants" features a DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 mix, which is a consistent high-quality offering. While the film's reliance on archival footage inherently limits its sonic potential, the audio track manages to deliver an engaging experience. Dialogue and voiceovers are clear, ensuring that neither Dick Dale's surf rock nor contemporary tracks from artists like Soundgarden and Linkin Park overpower the narrative. The eclectic soundtrack bolsters the audio quality significantly, filling the room with dynamic beats and enveloping atmospheric sounds.

Surround channel utilization is generally subtle, though selectively effective. The opening scene, with seagulls darting across speakers followed by a booming wave crash, sets an exceptional precedent. Such moments, while not ubiquitous, are impactful. Nonetheless, much of the older footage restricts more elaborate sound diffusion, keeping audio predominantly within front channels. When newer footage does appear, it introduces a heartier bass presence and rear-channel activity. Crashing waves are especially notable, providing invigorating but not overpowering soundscapes that align well with the film’s visual elements.

Overall, the DTS-HD MA 5.1 lossless soundtrack ensures clarity and cohesion even amid source limitations. While bass levels fluctuate throughout and certain effects seem post-added for dramatic purposes, they serve to enhance rather than detract. Although the narration occasionally competes with other audio elements, it remains discernible but falls short against dynamic background sounds. Despite these minor drawbacks, "Riding Giants" on Blu-ray delivers an above-average audio experience that complements its diverse soundtrack and often immersive effects channels.

The Blu-ray release of "Riding Giants" offers a compelling suite of extras, catering to both surfing enthusiasts and film aficionados. The dual audio commentaries provide valuable insights; the first features Director Stacy Peralta and Editor Paul Crowder discussing production challenges, visual aesthetics, and sound design. The second commentary, with Writer Sam George and legendary surfers Greg Noll, Jeff Clark, and Laird Hamilton, though more subdued, delves into technical surfing jargon and relaxed reflections on the film. The Making of 'Riding Giants' presents a thorough examination of the film's evolution, from initial interviews to the final cut. Fuel TV's Blue Carpet Special captures the film's premiere with engaging interviews and behind-the-scenes looks. Additionally, a set of five deleted scenes offers extended content that's insightful but secondary to the main documentary.

Extras included in this disc:

• Audio Commentary: With Stacy Peralta and Paul Crowder.
• Audio Commentary: With Sam George, Jeff Clark, Greg Noll, and Laird Hamilton.
• Making-of ‘Riding Giants’: Detailed behind-the-scenes documentary.
• Fuel TV’s Blue Carpet Special: Coverage of the film’s premiere.
• Deleted Scenes: Extended interviews and additional content.
• BD Live Enabled: Interactive online features.

“Riding Giants,” directed by Stacy Peralta, stands as a seminal documentary that transcends the boundaries of traditional filmmaking with its thorough and engaging exploration of big wave surfing. The film charts the sport’s evolution through the eyes of legends like Greg Noll, Jeff Clark, and Laird Hamilton. Peralta’s narrative is interwoven with a seamless blend of historic footage and contemporary visuals, framed within a dynamic multi-generational context. This approach not only captures the physical exploits of these daring surfers but also delves into the broader culture and community that have defined surfing over the decades.

The documentary opens with a succinct history of surfing, from its origins in Hawaii to its near-extinction under Calvinist missionaries, and its revival in the 20th century. It then shifts focus to Greg Noll, who captivated audiences with his 1948 escapades at Waimea Bay, effectively marking the birth of Big Wave surfing. The narrative then artfully transitions to Jeff Clark, the unsung hero of Mavericks in Northern California, and Laird Hamilton of the modern era, known for pioneering tow-in surfing at Maui's Pe'ahi reef. Their stories are set against a backdrop of technological advancements that have revolutionized surfboard design, enabling surfers to challenge waves previously thought insurmountable.

Peralta’s direction is complemented by a breezy and light tone that aligns with the oceanic expanses and the laid-back personalities of the surfers interviewed. The film’s strongest attribute is undoubtedly the candid participation of these surfing icons. Greg Noll’s vibrant and occasionally profane monologues resonate deeply, encapsulating the essence and raw emotion of the sport. "Riding Giants" not only covers surfing techniques and achievements but also lends an introspective view into the lives shaped by this demanding and exhilarating pursuit. Through comprehensive interviews and poignant archival footage, this documentary successfully captures the unwavering dedication, camaraderie, and profound connection to nature inherent in the world of big wave surfing.

"Riding Giants" is a remarkable documentary that captures the essence and excitement of the surfing world. Directed and narrated by Stacy Peralta, the film provides a vivid and engaging exploration of the history and culture of big-wave surfing. The lush visuals and dynamic shots reflect the thrill and challenge of riding colossal waves, offering viewers a front-row seat to the triumphs and tribulations of surfing legends. The 1080p transfer on Blu-ray stays true to the original sources, beautifully presenting the breathtaking scenes with crisp clarity. Complemented by a robust lossless soundtrack, the audio-visual experience fully immerses the audience in the heart-pounding action on screen.

The film explores not just the sport but also the passionate community behind it. Interviews with surfing icons reveal a deep emotional connection to the ocean and the adrenaline-fueled pursuit of mastery over nature's most powerful forces. Stacy Peralta's steady narration ties everything together, creating a cohesive and compelling narrative that appeals to both seasoned surfers and newcomers. The addition of a thoughtful musical score further enhances the film's ability to transport viewers into this unique subculture. Although the Blu-ray release is not loaded with an extensive array of extras, the available bonus features, including an insightful audio commentary from Peralta and Editor Paul Crowder, add significant value.

Even if not the big blue Blu-ray experience I was hoping for, "Riding Giants" is a winner. It made a fan out of a naysayer and kept my attention for its entire 100 minutes. Not packed with the most supplements I have come across, what it does have is quality – check out the audio commentary with Stacy Peralta and Editor Paul Crowder. After seeing this documentary, I am going to be watching Peralta's "Dogtown and Z-Boys". I am excited to see if he can pull it off again. This one is an easy rental recommendation, and if you are a fan of the subject matter, go ahead and grab a copy; you will watch it more than once.