Here at Vaer, we tend to spend a lot more time working than partying, but every so often, the stars align, and we have a chance to bring our friends in the community together for a night of cold drinks, good vibes, and plenty of disposable film. A few weeks ago we decided to organize a get-together for the official premier of our latest surf film Salina Cruz. This project was a collaboration with local surfer/writer/director Noah Hill, and it was a great opportunity to kick back, relax, and enjoy some good conversations.
Who is Noah Hill?
This project was a special collaboration with neighborhood surf legend Noah Hill. Despite his young age, Noah has been a fixture in the Venice Beach surf scene, having been raised here and surfed the Venice Pier his entire life. His deep connection to the local community and his unique experience as a filmmaker made him the perfect partner for the project. In addition to anchoring the film as the star athlete, Noah also took the lead in writing and directing Salina Cruz.
What’s the film about?
The documentary short follows Noah on a journey beyond the bright lights, and loud sirens of Venice Beach, to the remote coast of Salina Cruz in Oaxaca, Mexico. Filmed with a mix of VHS cassettes and a modern telephoto rig, the final cut is a well-balanced mix of artful storytelling and top-tier surf content.
Where was the film premiere?
The first screening for Salina Cruz took place at one of our favorite local bars, El Chucho, located on Venice Boulevard, less than a mile from Vaer HQ. El Chucho has become a beloved spot for the Venice Beach community, offering a welcoming atmosphere, great drinks, and an ambiance that perfectly matches the vibe and culture of the film.
Who showed up to the party?
As the sun began to set in the lead-up to the 8 pm screening, the venue started to fill with a mix of familiar faces and new friends. Ryan, Reagan, Blake, and Evan-Austen from the Vaer team were all in attendance, complimented by a solid portion of the Malibu and Venice Beach surf community.
As the projector lit up and the film began, cheers and applause broke out within the crowd - as friends and fans called out Noah’s name after nearly every wave. After the film, the celebration continued with good conversations, plenty of drinks, and more than a few toasts to the success of the project.
If you're in LA and you missed this party, keep your eyes out for our next event, and hopefully, we'll see you there.
