A SURF DREAM

The West Factory granted us the artistic freedom we needed for our first project since graduation, allowing us to bring our vision to life without constraints. They wanted to tell a story that not only reflected their business mindset but also captured the deeper essence of surfing—the connection between craftsmanship, passion, and the ocean. Rather than creating a conventional advertisement, we decided to craft a short fiction film, a dreamlike narrative that explores the journey of a surfboard maker and his lifelong relationship with the sea.

At the heart of the story is Eric, a shaper whose passion for surfing was born in his childhood. As a young boy, he would watch surfers carve through the waves, mesmerized by their skill and freedom. Those early moments shaped his dreams, inspiring him to one day be part of that world. Now, years later, he is the one shaping surfboards, pouring his energy and dedication into every piece. Each board he crafts carries a piece of his past, his aspirations, and his deep respect for the waves.

Through this film, we wanted to explore the cyclical nature of passion—how inspiration is passed down, how childhood dreams evolve into craftsmanship, and how the sea remains an unchanging source of energy. Shot with Makke Hussein, the film takes a poetic approach, blending fluid cinematography, natural light, and an ethereal atmosphere to immerse the audience in Eric’s journey. The West Factory’s commitment to surf culture and local craftsmanship shines through in every frame, reinforcing their role in shaping the future of surfing in Côte d’Ivoire.

This project was more than just a film for us; it was a chance to tell a story that resonates with anyone who has ever been inspired by the ocean. It was about capturing the essence of a passion that starts as a dream, takes shape through hard work, and ultimately rides the waves of reality.