The Longest Wave 2019
"Legends take a lifetime"
Oscar-nominated director Joe Berlinger takes us on a global journey alongside windsurfing legend Robby Naish—24-time world champion and a pioneer of big-wave riding—in *The Longest Wave (2019)*.
Director: Joe Berlinger
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Longest Wave (2019) about?
This documentary follows windsurfing icon Robby Naish as he travels the globe in search of the world's longest waves. Along the way, it explores his dual life as a competitor, mentor, and father, revealing the personal struggles behind his 24 world championship titles.
Who directed The Longest Wave?
The film is directed by Joe Berlinger, an Oscar-nominated filmmaker known for his powerful documentaries that blend intimate storytelling with cinematic visuals.
Who stars in The Longest Wave?
The documentary features windsurfing legends Robby Naish, Laird Hamilton, Kai Lenny, and Gerry Lopez, alongside athlete-turned-filmmaker Robert Richman and Martin Lenny.
Is The Longest Wave (2019) worth watching?
With its stunning cinematography, emotional depth, and behind-the-scenes look at one of the greatest windsurfers of all time, *The Longest Wave* is a must-watch for fans of action sports and character-driven documentaries alike. It's a rare film that balances adrenaline with heart.
How long is The Longest Wave?
The runtime of *The Longest Wave* is 94 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About The Longest Wave (2019) — Oscar-nominated documentary on Robby Naish's quest for the ultimate ride
Oscar-nominated director Joe Berlinger takes us on a global journey alongside windsurfing legend Robby Naish—24-time world champion and a pioneer of big-wave riding—in *The Longest Wave (2019)*. This gripping documentary blends breathtaking ocean adventures with an intimate, vérité-style portrait of a man whose relentless pursuit of perfection faces its ultimate test, not just against towering waves but within the personal struggles of fatherhood, mentorship, and legacy. As Naish chases the world's most elusive long waves, the film peels back the layers of his competitive spirit to reveal vulnerability, resilience, and the quiet battles that define greatness far beyond the sport.
Shot across stunning coastal landscapes and into the heart of competitive windsurfing, the documentary transcends the action genre by weaving raw emotion with stunning cinematography. It's a meditation on mastery, the weight of expectation, and the human side of legends—where every wipeout and triumph on the water mirrors the challenges of life onshore.