PAIA - Paia filmmaker Mike Waltze is familiar with being on the other side of the lens. As one of the trailblazers behind windsurfing, tow-in surfing, kiteboarding and standup paddle surfing, the waterman was featured in dozens of magazines and other media. But his familiarity with filmmaking and storytelling from the opposite side of the lens is evident in his standup paddle documentary "That First Glide."
The 77-minute film will screen at 7:30 p.m. Friday at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center's Castle Theater. Tickets are $12, plus applicable fees.
"That First Glide" explores the history standup paddling, which parallels outrigger canoe paddling and surfing. Although the rapidly evolving sport is relatively new, Waltze shows that SUP-style surfing can be traced to the early Hawaiians and the first Waikiki boys in the early 20th century. Stories from SUP greats such as Laird Hamilton, Dave Kalama, Robby Naish, Gerry Lopez and Kai Lenny are interwoven. Waltze also illustrates skill level and various conditions that SUP has to offer.
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Waltze's intimate knowledge of the sport and personal network of SUP giants enhance the journey for viewers, whether one is a sport insider or completely clueless.
"The sport is growing so fast in the Mainland and in lakes and bays and rivers around the world," he added. "I wanted to tell a story that would help connect those people to Hawaii, so they would see all of its roots are in Hawaii."
To view the trailer, visit thatfirstglide.com/trailer.html. To purchase tickets, visit www.mauiarts.org.
- Kehaulani Cerizo
