Musician Jack Johnson has unveiled his latest documentary, titled ‘SURFILMUSIC’, which is a heartfelt tribute to his late friend, Tamayo Perry. Perry, a revered figure within the Hawaiian surfing community, tragically lost his life in a shark attack in June 2024. The film made its debut at the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival on 13 March 2024.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Jack-Johnson-031226-3-6c33c27a31f143eabff8c0241d1f8ca4.jpg)
Growing up on the North Shore of Hawaii, Johnson and Perry shared a lifelong friendship, deeply rooted in their passion for surfing and the ocean. The documentary is dedicated to Perry in “loving memory” and represents a poignant reflection on their bond and the impact Perry had on those around him.
In the film, the renowned musician, now aged 50, recalls the moment he learned of Perry’s death, a shock that reverberated throughout the close-knit surfing community. Johnson reflects on the significance of their final moments spent together, pondering, “When I first heard the news of losing Tamayo, I think that you start trying to remember the last time you hung out, or things that were said or just wondering whether you were able to say goodbye.” He fondly recalls Perry’s warmth, noting how he consistently made time to express affection, saying, “he’d give you a big hug and say he loved you and he was so present through his whole life.”
Perry, who was 49 at the time of his passing, was not only an iconic surfer but also a respected lifeguard on the islands. He had previously appeared in Johnson’s 2000 surf documentary ‘Thicker Than Water’, as well as in major films such as ‘Blue Crush’ and ‘Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides’. Following Perry’s tragic death, Johnson paid tribute to him on Instagram, where he referred to Perry as “one of the world’s best storytellers, tube riders, travel companions, uncles, husbands, lifeguards, but most importantly, one of my best friends.”
‘SURFILMUSIC’ explores the evolution of Johnson’s career, depicting his journey from a hopeful surfer to an acclaimed filmmaker and Grammy-nominated musician. The documentary presents an intimate portrait of Johnson, delving into personal memories that highlight his experiences both on and off the surfboard.
In a press statement, the film was described as a unique blend of rare footage from Johnson’s earlier surf films, alongside private family archives, interwoven with contemporary reflections. The documentary captures how personal experiences, friendships, and a spirit of exploration have shaped the melodies and narratives behind his music.
Directed by Emmett Malloy, ‘SURFILMUSIC’ features interviews with close friends and renowned professional surfers, including Kelly Slater. The documentary also includes contributions from Johnson’s wife, Kim, whom he married in 2000, and with whom he has three children: two sons and a daughter.
Johnson’s musical career has continued to thrive, with his most recent album, titled ‘Meet the Moonlight’, released in 2022. As the documentary sheds light on his life and career, it serves as a testament to the enduring power of friendship and the influence of the ocean on both Johnson’s music and his personal journey.
Through ‘SURFILMUSIC’, audiences are invited to witness a celebration of life, friendship, and the waves they once rode together, keeping alive the memory of Tamayo Perry and the spirit of the surfing lifestyle that shaped both their lives.