A Meeting With the Drifter Himself

Posted on 03. Nov, 2009 by in Surfer, Videos

With a laid back demeanor, a full head of wild hair, and the surfing abilities of someone who was indefinitely born to spend his days in the water, Rob Machado epitomizes the concept of a soul surfer. I was lucky enough to be the recipient of some free passes to the Hawaiian International Film Festival, (thanks Kim) to the premier of his new surf flick, “The Drifter.” The film is about Rob’s journey West, as he explores parts of Bali and Indonesia in the pursuit of perfect waves and an exit from the daily grind of being a celebrity athlete. The film showcases a personal side of Rob as well, sharing his insights on philosophy and lifestyle as well as his personal photography, art, and music.

The film awakens your travel bug instantly, and I found myself dreaming of a few destinations I’ve had on the brain for years. The film endures a combination of gorgeous backdrop, glassy empty sets, and the typical perfect complimentary soundtrack you can expect from a Taylor Steele movie.

Although I enjoyed the film a lot and recommend it to anyone who is a lover of surfing or travel, the film itself was not the highlight of my night. We were at a premier party with the type of spread you would expect, drinks, pupus, and few Lost cast members. You know, the uze! What I didn’t expect to see was the star of the film himself, Rob Machado, giving an interview a few feet away from me as I sipped on a beer. Naturally, I had to meet him.

Because of the intimate setting of the lounge, Kim and I were able to meet and chat with Rob briefly. His relaxed personality on film is fully transparent as he was extremely patient and engaging with us as we discussed traveling, surfing, and his movie, “The Drifter.” He later mentioned the difficult balance of taking on such a personal role with video cameras and a production crew surrounding him at all times. I think he pulled it off well. Then, I ruined the moment by awkwardly asking him for a photo. But Rob said yes anyway. Sweet.

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  • Cindy

    Cool. I always loved the concept of a soul surfer. But since I can't surf (I can barely swim), maybe I should aim to be a soul shopper. :-)

  • http://www.danzelikman.com/ Dan Zelikman

    Hmm… I wonder what that would entail? You growing out your hair and slowing your pace as you go from store to store at Ala Moana? ;)

  • Cindy

    It would mean traveling the world where the shopping takes me! :-)

  • Todd

    Okay, so what are a few of the places you've dreamed of visiting (and surfing)?

  • http://www.danzelikman.com/ Dan Zelikman

    Wow, where do I begin. Hawaii was obviously a first choice so I'm stoked to have experienced that. I would like to tackle the North Shore a bit though. After that, Australia, Fiji, Indo, South Africa, France, Portugal, British Columbia… I guess the list goes on and on. Hawaii has calmed my constant drive to travel for a bit, but that sleeping giant is slowly starting to awaken…

  • bnetto

    I like the Portugal Part dude

  • http://www.danzelikman.com/ Dan Zelikman

    Portugal part? Quit adding your country into my surf movies! He's in Indo you meatball! Although I would love to visit Portugal and get some surfing in!