The Drifter wins best film at Ombak Bali

Saturday August 22 during the jury of International Surf Film Festival Ombak Bali 2009 selected the new Taylor Steele film the Drifter as best surf film 2009 out of the ten films which were in competition.

The Drifter tells the story of world-famous surfing icon Rob Machado travelling through Indonesia to escape the entanglements of his life at home. As he wanders further and further into the outskirts of the South East Asian surf paradise, he’s pursued by the fact that you can’t escape from yourself.

The jury consisting of profesional surf photographer Mick Curley, surf film maker Renny Bee Febriani and former Rip Curl marketing manager South East Asia Clemens Berger were unanimous in their decision.

Quote from the jury:

It is a great portrayal and artistic way of showing Indonesia and all its subtleties which makes it so unique. It is also an inspirational film and which makes you want to throw out your phone and go travel and explore.

The Drifter encapsulates the true essence of adventure and soul searching which is something every surfer can relate to and wants to find. People that dont surf will also enjoy this film immensely as it showcases Indonesia, tells a serious story of Rob Machados life with a great mix of humor thrown in to make this film one not to be missed and a joy to watch.

The only independent surf film festival in South East Asia, Ombak Bali is a platform where national and international surf filmmakers can expose their films to an interested public. Surf cinema has taken a leap over the last couple of years with surf filmmakers exploring the documentary world and film makers exploring the surf world.

More than 1600 people enjoyed the festival this year with the beachscreening on August 20 as the main attraction. 800 people gathered on the beach in front of the Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel after sunset to watch Mata Ombak and A Fly in the Champagne.

Ombak Bali 2010 will take place from 22-25 August.

www.ombakbali.com