Ben Weiland and Brian Davis, the dynamic duo behind Fielder Films, are revolutionizing the world of surf movies. Their unique approach to storytelling and their passion for exploring the unknown have captivated audiences and pushed the boundaries of what's possible in the genre. In this interview, we delve into their journey, from their personal history with surfing to their quest for the perfect wave in the most remote corners of the globe. We also explore the human stories that make their films so compelling and discuss their future plans and upcoming projects.
A Passion for Adventure and Surf
Ben Weiland's love for surfing began in high school, but it was his time studying abroad in New Zealand that truly ignited his passion. The wild and beautiful landscapes of the South Island, where he had to hike and rappel to reach the best surf spots, captivated him. This led him to start the Arctic Search Blog, where he researched waves in cold places like Alaska and the Arctic. His work with SURFER magazine and Chris Burkard further fueled his interest in filmmaking, and eventually, he quit his day job to pursue video production full-time.
Brian Davis, on the other hand, had a different path to surfing. He was into coffee and running a local cafe but was also passionate about film. When he met Ben, they hit it off and decided to collaborate on projects. Their shared love for adventure and storytelling led to the creation of Fielder Films.
From New Zealand to the Arctic
Ben's journey from New Zealand to the Arctic was fueled by his desire to combine his two greatest passions: surfing and adventure. He found the perfect overlap in the wild and remote places where you can surf in the mountains, trees, and cold. His travels led him to discover some truly crazy surf setups, which made him realize that there's still so much to be discovered out there.
The Challenges of Finding Exploration
Despite the abundance of information available online, Ben emphasizes the challenges of actually getting to these remote places. He recalls the experience of searching for Volcano Island, where the journey was as difficult as finding the perfect wave. The vastness of the Bering Sea and the uncharted waters made navigation a challenge, and the decision to fly a drone or paddle in with gear was a tough one.
Human Stories and Characters
Fielder Films' films are not just about finding waves; they're about the human stories that make the journey meaningful. Brian highlights the importance of characters in drawing people into the narrative. In Volcano Island, the brothers' quest to find the perfect wave and their personal stakes in the game create a compelling story. Ben and Brian constantly ask themselves how to make people think about the characters and the experiences they encounter along the way.
Upcoming Projects and Future Plans
Fielder Films is currently working on a new project with Dane Gadauskas and Ellie Thor in Iceland. They're also chipping away at several other semi-developed projects, but they're keeping the details under wraps for now. However, they do have a list of places they want to explore, and their passion for adventure and storytelling will undoubtedly lead them to some incredible destinations.
Conclusion
Ben and Brian's journey with Fielder Films is a testament to the power of passion and the endless possibilities of exploration. Their films not only showcase the beauty of surfing in remote places but also inspire people to get out and see the world for themselves. As they continue to push the boundaries of surf filmmaking, we can't wait to see where their next adventure takes them and what stories they'll tell along the way.
