Sliding Liberia Starring Chris Del Moro

A large theatre set amidst an old Catholic missionary building, now acting as a school for Santa Barbara children, was the stage for Sliding Liberia. The film, as part of the Santa Barbara Film festival, had a buzz around it and you could feel the electricity as you walked up the main stairs and through the large glass double doors. Jeans with t-shirts and blazers, flannels and even a few Hawaiian shirts let you know that the crowd was surf centric out in their casual best. Familiar faces greeted you as you approached the ticket counter. Chris Del Moro in a checkered blazer had a huge smile that somehow shined through the impressive beard he has recently grown. Dan Malloy shook hands and talked about his experience in making the movie.

The cast and crew stood on stage and talked shortly about the film. In the spirit of film festivals they explained that surfing documentaries are probably one of the most independent of all the genres. They all expressed a great appreciation for the experience of making the film and hoped that all who watched would feel some of what they felt out in Liberia. The film was a great mix of social commentary and surf footage of a perfect left any of us would be happy to experience.

Once the lights came on the roar of the crowd was proof of the success of the film. Great footage, excellent story telling and and awesome music score all equated to a hugely successful film. Everyone was talking and nodding their heads in agreement on how much they liked the film.

The post party at Sandbar was a huge success. Live music, drinks and beautiful people all made the party a lot fun. The informal setting allowed many people to talk with the surf stars and film makers of the movie. Intellectual discussions on social issues, surf board designs and cultural experiences encompassed only some of what was on the minds of this Sliding Liberia crowd. The idea that a film could stimulate thought and debate was proving true all night long. A raffle was held for the donated surf products and one lucky guy named Van walked away with a new Matuse 4:3:2 Hoplite fullsuit. The best $2 he’s ever spent. If you didn’t make this event keep your eyes peeled for the next one. You won’t want to miss it.