Billabong Odyssey review

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This invigorating documentary opens with a stunning scene: a surfer is towed out into seemingly tranquil waters, but as the camera pulls away, the ocean surges behind him, turning into a 70ft wall that threatens to crush the tiny figure skating down its surface. As the posters tell us, this is no special effect - it's real, and it sets the standard for a slew of breathtaking surf sequences.

The odyssey of the title is a quest by surf rivals Brad Gerlach and Mike Parsons to travel the world in search of the biggest waves ever. Equipped with state-of-the-art camera gear, jetskis and medical teams, the crew ride the giants in Australia, Tahiti and Northern California - providing visceral board-eye, underwater and aerial views along the way. A mesmerising, fearsome and exhilarating journey that confirms the might of Mother Nature and provides an insight into the passion that drives these surfing daredevils. Awesome (dude).

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