He's one of the most aesthetically pleasing surfers to behold when he's in the water. John John Florence is a delight both in competition and in the many productions he has released in recent years.
Two-time world surfing champion, John John Florence is also a passionate image-maker, and doesn't hesitate to get behind the camera to capture the beauties of nature. But it's still in front of the lens that we prefer him, as seen in the magnificent films unveiled by the Hawaiian surfer in recent years.
Done (2013)
In 2013, John John Florence was not yet a world surfing champion (he wouldn't win his first title until 2016). But he's already a reference on the waves, and his film "Done" confirms it. Directed by Blake Vincent Kueny, this production was voted best film of the year at the 2013 Surfer Poll.
Begin Again (2013)
Once again, American director Blake Vincent Kueny is at the helm of this short film. Shot on the Hawaiian spots that John John Florence knows by heart, this production takes us to the temple of surfing, on the North Shore beaches of Oahu and Maui. The video also won a trophy (best short film) at the Surfer Poll.
& Again (2015)
The video is short (five minutes) but worth a look as it's shot in Tahiti, notably on the spot where the events for the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games will be held. John John Florence regales us with his unfailing commitment and legendary fluidity in the water. It's also an opportunity to admire Raimana Van Bastolaer and Albee Layer in action.
View From A Blue Moon (2015)
A real cinematic slap in the face when it was released in 2015, View From A Blue Moon is one of the most beautiful films unveiled by the Hawaiian surfer. The shots by Parallel Sea are sumptuous, the image quality of this production shot in 4K is to die for, and the surf spots (scattered all over the world) are once again perfectly chosen. Watch the film (pay-per-view) in full here.
Space (2018)
In 2018, John John Florence is coming off two perfect seasons that saw him crowned world champion in 2016 and 2017. But the Hawaiian hasn't forgotten his passion for film and documentary production. This short film takes us between Australia and Hawaii under the direction of Parallel Sea.
Vela (2020)
As a professional surfer, John John Florence could also have become a sailor, as the discipline holds a special place in his heart. In Vela, he takes us on a four-part journey (the first of which can be seen below) aboard his catamaran of the same name. An odyssey through the various islands of the Hawaiian archipelago.
Tokyo Rising (2020)
This time, Spencer Klein follows John John Florence in his quest to qualify for surfing's first Olympic appearance. While the aesthetics of the images are not at the heart of this production, it's the duel that pits the Hawaiian against surfing legend Kelly Slater that captures the director's attention. The two surfers go head to head over several months in a bid to qualify for Tokyo.
Form (2022)
John John Florence pays homage to the famous Pipeline spot in this film called "Form". The haunting voice-over is by Hawaiian singer Paula Fuga. The film also features the surfing legends who have made Pipeline famous, including Rob Machado, Kelly Slater, Koa Rothma, Mike Stewart, Andy Irons and Derek Ho. The film is dedicated to Ho, who passed away in 2020.