Eric Roberts plays a legendary hero and surf instructor in the up coming movie “The Perfect Summer.”
Hollywood filmmakers have been trying to capture the essence of surf culture since the early ’60s. And for good reason. The mixture of adventure and beach sub-culture is alluring to anyone.
Hollywood’s relationship with surfing, although often criticized for being superficial, is culturally significant and unquestionably enduring. From the early days of Gidget and Endless Summer, the movie industry’s rendition of the surf scene has had major influence over popular culture–whether we like to admit it or not.
Nobody can deny the cults that ensued after films such as Big Wednesday and Blue Crush. The beaches always seem to be a little (a lot) more crowded after a new Hollywood surf film is released.
We were able to talk with Eric Roberts who plays “a legendary surf hero” in the upcoming film “The Perfect Summer” on UP Television.
What attracted you most to this movie?
I play a grandfather in the movie, and I am a grandfather in real life. It was a great way to start playing my own age. Plus, it was a feel good movie. I’ve usually played bad guys in the past so it was a nice transition.
Have you ever surfed prior to making the film?
I’ve never surfed. And if I’m being completely honest, I never surfed during the film either. I had a world-ranked long boarder, Tony Silvagni, as my surf double. (Laughs) I let him handle that aspect. He actually has a surf school located in North Carolina.
Surf films have been gaining a lot of recognition lately. Do you think surfing has a pretty significant place in Hollywood?
Yes, of course. It has all the elements for a good movie…beauty, danger. It really is a gorgeous sport that anyone could appreciate. Surfing will always have a place in Hollywood.
The movie was filmed in North Carolina. What did you think of the surf scene there?
The first day filming, the waves were at least ten feet high. Two surfers had actually got caught in the undertow and some of our crewmembers had to go out there and pull them out. Prior to making the film, I would never have thought of North Carolina when I think of surf culture. But it is crazy there!
Any desire to jump on a board now?
I’m too old to start learning, and the ocean is a dangerous place. I wish I had taken it up when I was younger. I have a new found respect for surfers and the ocean.
Check out “The Perfect Summer” which premieres on Saturday, July 13th on Up TV.
