In the latest installment of The Inertia’s Hometown Hype series presented by White Claw, we dive into the heart of New Jersey’s surf scene with directors Sal Librizzi and Corey Frank. These two Jersey natives have been riding the waves of the Manasquan Inlet since their grom days, and now they’re capturing the essence of their beloved hometown through the lens.
From the evolving surf community to the shared excitement of a winter swell, Sal and Corey offer an insider’s view of what makes the Jersey Shore so unique — and why it continues to inspire them. We caught up with the duo to learn about their filmmaking journey, the significance of local culture, and what it means to showcase New Jersey on such a grand stage.
Frank, left, and Sal, documenting the place they love. Photo: Courtesy filmmakers
Tell us about your ties to New Jersey?
We both grew up down the shore surfing and met each other through mutual friends surfing the Manasquan Inlet. We’ve basically been either surfing or working together in some capacity since then. We both still live here and love it. Certainly not a place for everyone, but we love seasonal change and know we’re lucky to be here.
How would you describe the surf community in New Jersey?
Evolved! Maybe we’re just feeling our age(s), but it’s been a whirlwind here since gromhood. Increased caliber of talent amongst the rippers and an expanded community overall, to put it mildly. Fortunately it all still works and everyone’s still getting waves. It’s been pretty wild to see something that was pretty fringe become as popular and organized as traditional sports.
What was your reaction when you were invited to partake in Hometown Hype?
Obviously we were gassed. The Inertia’s been at it for a while so the recognition was very cool. Finding out that our pal and undisputed Jersey goat, Sam Hammer threw our hat in the ring was extra rad. His endorsement to showcase the region means a lot.
What do you hope the film accomplishes?
The goal of our film is to give our audience a real taste of the high-caliber winter surf that the roster of characters we call “local talent” tears to shreds. Peak winter swells are marquee event(s) when they show, winter is pretty quiet here otherwise. The anticipation, energy, the payoff on everyone’s faces. It’s a circus, but we love it.
New Jersey surf personified. Photo: Fiona Mullen
Is there anything you want people to know about your community?
It’s just a really special place, you’d be crazy not to notice (and let us tell you the world has, just peep the housing market!). Every individual beach town around here has its own flavor but all come together for the perfect cocktail that is the Jersey Shore. The only constant is change, but given the impact that surfing in this area has made on so many people, it’s a world of its own that we all love dearly.
Any shoutouts?
First and foremost, John Taylor for the almighty breakfast meat that fuels the shore, our families (both blood and beach!) and loved ones for all the support over the years.
Frank and Sal’s Hometown Hype: New Jersey film premieres Thursday, August 22 in Point Pleasant at the Broadway Bar and Grille starting at 6 p.m. Entry is free, but space is limited. RSVP HERE.
