Vince Collier
Learning to Breathe
Learning to Breathe observes the past and present of Anthony Ruffo, a 47-year-old professional surfing legend and drug addict. Facing prison time in an ever-changing California court system, Anthony must decide whether to continue on his path of addiction and crime, or change his life and begin to heal the community he damaged. Anthony's surfing past, methamphetamine addiction, criminality, and eventual recovery are displayed candidly. Those surrounding Anthony, including some of the world's best surfers, discuss Anthony's rise to fame and spiral into addiction and criminality. For the first time, they break the code of silence in the surfing industry and open up about their own addiction issues, discussing the problem of widespread drug use in the professional surfing community.
Disney+
Apple TV
Apple iTunes
The Westsiders
A rare surfing documentary film that gives an honest look at the darkest side of surfing and the aftermath of addiction and recovery. It's a winner of many awards and some critics have even made the bold claim this is the best surfing documentary ever made. Go face to face with "The Godfather of The Westside". The Godfather is a massive brute who runs the waves at Steamer Lane with his own version of street justice. Since the film's premiere two of the stars have passed away. The Westsiders, narrated by acting legend Rosanna Arquette is an eye-opening mixture of surfing innovation and gritty localism, and documents the rise and fall of “The Westsiders” surf gang through the eyes of three best friends from the original "Surf City," Santa Cruz, California. Best friends, are bonded by common tragedy including shattered homes, drug addiction, psychological issues and hard-core localism.
Apple TVApple iTunes
Google Play Movies