SURFING WITH THE ENEMY: HISTORY OF SURF IN CUBA

Cinemavixion Review

Scott Braman and Adam Preskill's documentary, "Surfing with the Enemy: History of Surf in Cuba," offers an engaging look into the burgeoning surf culture within Cuba. The film chronicles the journey of Havana-based surfers, led by Eduardo Valdes, the founder of the Havana Surf Association, as they navigate the challenges of practicing their sport in a society with inherent restrictions. The narrative expands as two filmmakers from Venice Beach, California, venture across the island to the Guantanamo province, a region known for its waves and the U.S. Naval Station. This exploration along the controversial coast reveals a hidden paradise, prompting reflections on the identity of surfers and their place in contemporary Cuba. While the film features Lance Henriksen, the core of its appeal lies in its intimate portrayal of a subculture striving for recognition against a complex geopolitical backdrop.