Caught Inside

Despite an increase in the number of elite athletes coming out in other sports, there has never been an openly gay surfer on the professional tour. In the wider surf community, many hide their sexuality in fear of rejection, threats or ostracism.

In a world where male-to-male bonding is pivotal in the formation of surf crews, there is an ever-present undercurrent of homophobia with the words “fag”, “poofter”, “homo” and “faggot” thrown around constantly to insult and abuse rival surf crews.

Surfing is a sport that presents itself with such open-mindedness, a strong connection to the ocean and freedom in spirit, yet many surfers still don’t feel so free about talking about opening up about their sexuality.

“Caught Inside” is a short documentary I produced exploring the taboo of homosexuality in surfing culture. I spoke to three vastly different Australian surfers to discuss their perspectives on why being gay in the lineup is still taboo and the experiences they’ve had growing up in a country full of surf, sand and waves.

Producer, Motion Design: Gabriel Virata
Cinematographer, Editor: Miles Bence

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Shropshire Rainbow Film Festival, 2015