You Should Have Been Here Yesterday
A Surf Documentary Celebrating Australia's Surf Culture
The surf documentary You Should Have Been Here Yesterday is a heartfelt tribute to the birth of Australia’s iconic surf culture. With a powerful mix of restored 16mm footage from the 60s, 70s and 80s, the film immerses viewers in the golden era of Australian surfing, showcasing the wild community that helped shape the sport as we know it today.
Directed by Jolyon Hoff, the documentary is an exhilarating ride through Australia's surf history, accompanied by a killer soundtrack from the surf legends Headland. Featuring interviews with surfing and Australian icons such as Albe Falzon, Tim Winton, Bob McTavish and Wayne Lynch, the film takes us on a nostalgic journey down the Aussie coast, capturing the spirit of freedom and adventure that defined the era.
Through over 150 hours of painstakingly restored film, You Should Have Been Here Yesterday brings to life the untold stories of surfers who took off up the coast, discovering a new way to live and embrace the surf lifestyle. The film’s stunning visuals and intimate interviews offer a unique look at Australia’s surf history, preserving these invaluable memories for future generations.
A Deep Dive Into Surf History
The film doesn’t just showcase surfing. It tells a story of a community united by a passion for the ocean, a love of adventure and a commitment to carving out a new lifestyle. The documentary beautifully weaves together archival footage and personal stories, giving a voice to the legends who made waves in Australian surfing history.
For fans of surfing, history and culture, this is a film that immerses you in the soul of Australia's surfing spirit. Whether you’re a longtime surfer or simply someone who loves the ocean, You Should Have Been Here Yesterday offers a window into the past, celebrating the heritage of surfing in Australia.
Legacy and Preservation: The Role of the Surf Film Archive
Directed by Jolyon Hoff (Searching For Michael Peterson), the film shines a light on the individuals and moments that helped shape Australia’s surf culture, showcasing their incredible achievements, challenges and the joy of surfing.
At the heart of this project is the Australian & New Zealand Surf Film Archive, a vital initiative that has worked tirelessly to restore and preserve surf footage for future generations. The archive’s mission is to safeguard the history of surfing in Australia and New Zealand, ensuring that the stories of the sport’s pioneers continue to inspire and educate.
A Tribute to the Spirit of Surfing
Ultimately, You Should Have Been Here Yesterday is a love letter to the surf community - past, present and future. It captures the essence of the culture, its characters and its timeless impact on Australia’s identity. This film is not only about surfing, but about the people, the places and the passion that define the sport and the coastal communities that embraced it.
With Jolyon Hoff at the helm, You Should Have Been Here Yesterday stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Australian surf culture, keeping its memory alive and well for generations to come.
For more information, visit Umbrella Entertainment.