Former, the surf brand and film collective, has reached a significant milestone with the release of its first major team film, "Defect". This marks a decade of growth for the brand, evolving from a small operation to a legitimate surf movie with an A-grade team. The film showcases the surfing talents of Dane Reynolds, Craig Anderson, Shaun Manners, Timo Simmers, Dion Agius, Benny Howard, Jay Davies, Dillon Perillo, Gabe Morvil, Jake Kelley, James Kusitino, Matt Hoy, and Kaito Ohashi. The release was celebrated at the Majestic Ventura Theater, where the team's surfing was met with enthusiastic cheers and applause.
One of the standout moments in the film is the introduction of James Kusitino, whose unique tube technique left a lasting impression on viewers. His surfing was so captivating that a group of spectators who had never seen him before practically fell out of their seats. This highlights the film's ability to showcase the creativity and skill of its surfers, even to those new to the sport.
The film also provides a glimpse into the diverse lives of the Former team members. Despite their day jobs, such as Jay Davies working on a tugboat and Gabe Morvil training to be an electrician, they all excel when it comes to surfing. The film's director, Hunter Martinez, noted the storytelling skills of Dane Reynolds, who effectively conveys the physical toll of the film's production despite the lack of a clear narrative.
"Defect" is a testament to the dedication and talent of the Former team. It showcases their surfing prowess and the unique personalities that make up the brand. The film's release is a celebration of the brand's growth and a testament to the power of surfing as a creative and inspiring art form.
