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Maya and the Wave

Directed by Stephanie Johnes
United States
2022
95 mins

Maya Gabeira grew up in Brazil with a dream to surf competitively. Like any surfer, she had to overcome the hazards of the ocean through training and discipline. But she was also forced to confront deep chauvinism in the male-dominated sport, as naysayers second-guessed her every move.

In Maya and the Wave, we follow Gabeira on a quest to break a world record in the Portuguese town of Nazaré, known for its huge waves.

Filmmaker Stephanie Johnes follows Maya over several years as she perseveres through setbacks, injuries, and a near-death experience to pursue her goal. The film was first runner-up for the People's Choice Award for Documentaries at the Toronto International Film Festival.

  • Year
    2022
  • Country
    United States
  • Language
    English
  • Premiere Status
    Florida Premiere
  • Director
    Stephanie Johnes
  • Cast
    Ross Clarke-Jones, Pedro Scooby, Sebastian Steudtner, Yamê Reis, Maya Gabeira, Garrett McNamara, Carlos Burle, Fernando Gabeira
  • Writer
    None None
  • Genre
    Documentary, Biography, Drama
  • Theme
    Directed by Women
  • Award
    Doc Achievement

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