Billabong Odyssey review

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This invigorating documentary opens with a stunning scene: a surfer is towed out into seemingly tranquil waters, but as the camera pulls away, the ocean surges behind him, turning into a 70ft wall that threatens to crush the tiny figure skating down its surface. As the posters tell us, this is no special effect - it's real, and it sets the standard for a slew of breathtaking surf sequences.

The odyssey of the title is a quest by surf rivals Brad Gerlach and Mike Parsons to travel the world in search of the biggest waves ever. Equipped with state-of-the-art camera gear, jetskis and medical teams, the crew ride the giants in Australia, Tahiti and Northern California - providing visceral board-eye, underwater and aerial views along the way. A mesmerising, fearsome and exhilarating journey that confirms the might of Mother Nature and provides an insight into the passion that drives these surfing daredevils. Awesome (dude).

The Total Film team are made up of the finest minds in all of film journalism. They are: Editor Jane Crowther, Deputy Editor Matt Maytum, Reviews Ed Matthew Leyland, News Editor Jordan Farley, and Online Editor Emily Murray. Expect exclusive news, reviews, features, and more from the team behind the smarter movie magazine. 

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