“HEART SWELL”
SCRIPTED FILM TREATMENT
(BASED ON TRUE EVENTS)
Written by Nick Waraksa & Jeffrey Kushon
SYNOPSIS
This is a psychological drama, steeped in action and adventure with an undertone that confronts racism.
A tale of redemption and resilience unfolds in this compelling story of a father and son duo embarking on a journey from hardship to triumph. Following his release from prison in Louisiana, an African American patriarch and his young son relocate to Maui in pursuit of a fresh start and brighter future, leaving behind a life consumed by gang violence. However, their aspirations for a paradise life are met with the harsh reality of financial struggles and familial strains, leading to the devastating departure of the mother under the veil of night.
Left to fend for themselves, Chris Sr. and his son Chris Jr. face adversity living out of their truck at Ho’okipa surf break, scavenging for sustenance and shelter along the coastline. Their fate takes a fortunate turn when a local Hawaiian family extends a helping hand, inviting them into their home and immersing them in the rich traditions and culture of Hawaii.
Embracing this newfound sense of community and belonging, father and son find solace and purpose in their shared love of surfing. This love for the water and surfing propels them towards a path of transformation and hope. As young Chris excels in the sport, his remarkable journey catches the eye of a documentary filmmaker, Nick, eager to capture his pursuit of becoming the first African American teenager to conquer the legendary 60-foot wave at Jaws, igniting a beacon of inspiration and possibility for all.
MOVIE TREATMENT DIRECTION / NOTES FOR READING THIS TREATMENT:
This movie cleverly employs three linear perspectives to weave a multi-dimensional narrative: First, there is a real-time narrative unfolding through the eyes of filmmaker and surfer Nick Waraksa, offering viewers a unique perspective on the story. To enhance the storytelling, "Drunk History" style flashbacks that break the fourth wall are incorporated, serving as a visually distinct contrast to the real-time narrative arc and as creative vignettes that transport audiences into Nick's imagination to feel and see what it was like to untrove the fascinating characters of Chris Davis Sr, son Chris Davis Jr, and wife Sierra.
The primary focus remains on the real timeline of events as Nick uncovers the intricacies of Chris's stories and encounters, marking key moments in their evolving relationship. This perspective provides a factual account of the events presented to Nick, offering a grounded anchor amidst the story's unfolding complexities.
Nick's vivid flashbacks and imaginative visuals take center stage, plunging viewers into a hyper-dream scenario where past events are reimagined with a surreal and whimsical flair. These sequences add depth and nuance to the storytelling, capturing the essence of Nick's memories and perceptions in a visually striking manner.
Adding another layer of complexity, the film introduces a "fifth wall" element, where the visuals shift to a vertical frame cropping (reminiscent of social media posts), placing viewers in a studio setting with Nick, writing partner Jeffrey Kushon, and film making partners Chris Nuñez and Bryan Mir where the actual film is being crafted. Shot vertically “on an iPhone”, this unconventional framing underscores the behind-the-scenes process as the film’s creators correct Chris Davis’ missteps, lies, and embellishments which injects a meta twist into the narrative arc of the film and simultaneously makes the film current in the vernacular of experiencing media today. This third perspective follows the various players and characters entwined in the events and stories, shedding light on their motivations, actions, and interconnections. By delving into the perspectives of these key figures, the narrative gains richness and depth, presenting a holistic view of the unfolding drama from multiple angles.
Through these intertwined perspectives, the film intricately explores themes of memory, imagination, and the subjective nature of truth. Steeped in the epic backdrop of Hawaii and hitting not only some of the largest waves in the world but also the heaviest topics such as racism and class stereotypes, audiences will go on a captivating journey through compelling characters, surfing, nature, and most of all the heart.
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“HEART SWELL”
ACT ONE
SCENE1 : FORESHADOWING/ FUTURE CHRIS DAVIS SR & JR
The screen is black, a subtle thunderous roar echoing in the emptiness, accompanied by deep, rhythmic breaths. Slowly, the darkness dissipates, giving way to a surreal sea of grayish-white bubbles, immersing us in the grandeur of a mythical wave at Jaws, crashing in a majestic dance before us with the world gilded in a goldish hue to inform us this is a foreshadowing of things to come.
Once more, darkness envelops us, only to be broken by the deep thumping of a heartbeat. As the screen transitions, a drone takes flight high above, soaring over a golden-hued pineapple field in Maui, gliding towards the heralded Jaws. Here, amidst the rolling waves, Lil’ Chris, now a man, stands poised for the ride of his life, his mentor Nano's voice resonating in his mind like a sacred chant, guiding him on the path of reverence for the ocean's might.
With a nod of affirmation to Nano (Chris Jr’s jet ski tow-in and safety guy), Chris readies himself for the impending challenge as the vast set looms over him, its power unfathomable. And in a tender moment, Big Chris's voice (his Father), filled with stern love, envelops Lil’ Chris, reassuring him of the unseen forces that stand by his side, propelling him towards the realm of legends.
Drone footage unveils a flurry of daring surfers, showcasing the raw intensity and boundless grandeur of the ocean's waves, a visual symphony of triumphs and tribulations. Pulling away, we behold Lil’ Chris on the cusp of the wave's embrace, the chaotic symphony fading into hushed stillness, his heartbeat a steady cadence in the silence.
As the camera ascends from the water's depths, revealing Chris Jr perched alone on the jet ski, the weight of reflection and legacy settling upon him like a gentle mist, a solitary figure against the canvas of the vast, unyielding ocean.
Cut to black.
ACT TWO
SCENE 2: MONTAGE / NICK CHARACTER INTRODUCTION
The story begins with a captivating montage of Nick immersed in the jungle with his filmmaking partners Chris and Bryan, filming indigenous tribes adorned in grass skirts and feather head dresses.. The seamlessly edited montage transitions with Nick entering the door of a wooden hut, where a cinematic scene change occurs as the camera passes past the door and Nick comes out the other side but now transported into modern attire entering his home in Chicago with his wife, daughter, and two dogs. They discuss their desire to relocate to a jungle life in America that aligns more with their love of nature and indigenous cultures.. Nick’s love for surfing makes Hawaii the perfect spot for a life centered around surfing, off-grid jungle living they learned from the tribes, and access to the indigenous cultures he and his wife love so much. This sets the tone for the open-mindedness of race and culture Nick will be juxtaposed with on this journey.
As they contemplate the move, they pass through their kitchen door that seamlessly edits into them emerging from a large wooden door out onto their new home’s Hawaiian lanai in yet another timeline where they find themselves settled in a stunning glass house villa overlooking the ocean in the jungles of Maui.
The narrative then cuts to a scene where Nick, clad in a comical lawn outfit that makes it obvious it’s new to him, stands in the jungle attempting to chainsaw a massive mango tree that has fallen on the house. In a moment of self-realization, the montage music halts, and Nick questions himself, "What the hell am I even doing here cutting jungle, I’d rather be out surfing!” Following this introspective moment, a quick shift reveals the need for assistance with their unconventional house in the harsh jungle environment. Enter Chris Davis Sr, a local Maui Handyman and pivotal character who is about to step in and play a significant role in their unique journey.
SCENE 3: NICK’S HOUSE RENOVATION IN HAIKU WITH “BIG CHRIS”
Chris Davis Sr. (Big Chris) is a tall and physically fit dark brown skinned black man with a medium brown curly afro. A 33 year old man that boasts on his “blackness” at every turn yet occasionally mentions how he’s part white and part Mexican (an internal struggle with identity that becomes a major undertone for the film that confronts racism in an extremely unique and poetic way). He has what looks like zero body fat, covered in tattoos, and often wears shorts, a tool belt, worker boots, no shirt, and surrounded by a cacophony of his own words.
Big Chris walks with Nick, who leads him on a tour of his distinctive jungle home, highlighting the extensive work required for Big Chris to take on the role of the new contractor, as they have gone through quite a list of unreliable candidates already on the island. As they navigate the tasks ahead, Big Chris unfolds his remarkable personal journey, captivating Nick with his unconventional and sometimes harsh narrative. Nick easily rolls with it and finds him to be witty and creative as their friendship deepens with every house project they have to figure out together.
SCENE 4: LIL’ CHRIS
Amidst their friendship, Nick encounters Lil’ Chris, Big Chris’ 14 year old son, adding depth to their already intriguing tale. Lil’ Chris might be 14 but he’s built big, clearly on a workout routine with his father, extremely dark skin from his Nigerian mother, attractive, and extremely soft and reserved in nature. Nick is drawn to him and immediately sees the DNA of a star with a personality that has a certain wisdom from having such a big energetic father in front of him to witness and calculate different ways to move through life off of that might not be working for Dad. The relationship between father and son shines through, showcasing the special bond they share. Their story's uniqueness is underscored by the revelation that Lil’ Chris aims to become the first teenage African American surfer to brave the formidable waves of JAWS, piquing further interest and curiosity from Nick and sparking ideas that this may be a tale that needs to be documented and shared with the world.
SCENE 5: THE DAVIS FAMILY CRIB
After some time working on Nick’s house, Chris invites Nick and his family over to see the land and house that they live on. Nick and his wife, Nico, are in utter disbelief to discover that Chris lives right across the street from them (Hana Hwy) and on the same land as the world famous Twin Falls. Behind several locked gates, down a long and epic jungle driveway, and following Chris guiding them as he races on his dirt bike at every turn making it comically difficult to follow him, they come upon 10 acres of gorgeous rainforest with a blue house inches from a rock waterfall and stream. Chris brags that it took him only 3 weeks to build his entire house which is believable not only in how strong and impressively hard he works but also in the lack of attention to detail with many things looking slapped together, uneven, and cut at weird angles which Nick would soon come to realize that’s how he applies himself everywhere in life being very strong, intense and creative yet sloppy and not very self-aware or self-critical placing blame on everyone but himself as his biggest character flaw and eventual social downfall. All together, this house visit opens the eyes of Nick and Nico as to the juxtaposition of the enchanted and magical life Big and little Chris live against the incredibly difficult gang life Big Chris came from as he sits in his majestic waterfall with one of his white babies in his arms pointing at and talking about all the gang tattoos on his arms that signify the difficult life he’s had before landing in Maui. Next to him in the water is his white wife, Sierra, who is pregnant with their next baby together. As hard as Nick is working on his film career and wanting to afford and live a simple life in Maui he looks at Chris Davis Sr and his family and wonders who really has achieved this dream better. At that moment he concludes that Chris’ situation appears to be the better life and full of lessons for him but as the characters reveal themselves to each other it touches on themes of friendship, trust, racism, and the journey within to be where we truly find our peace and happiness in a world based on outward appearances and societal validations.
SCENE 6: NICK’S YARD / HAWAIIAN FAMILY FLASHBACK
In a poignant moment while working on Nick’s house, Big Chris imparts his wisdom on tree grafting to Nick's 9-year-old daughter, Paikea, showcasing his rugged yet spiritually connected farmer persona. Nick, in admiring awe, coins the term "spiritual gangster farmer" to describe Big Chris's unique blend of toughness and depth which blends spiritual phrases, Hawaiian MANA, ebonics, and cuss words all wrapped in a southern drawl. Through slang and gangster-style nuances, Big Chris eloquently conveys the beauty of living off the land, creating a captivating juxtaposition of roughness and insight. Phrases such as, “Ah look here, dis a Pakake flower! Ya see here dis can get grafted, replanted, and den you got dis mothafucka all ova ya house smelling sweet as hell, blessin’ yo ass and children asses fo life!”
During this profound exchange, Big Chris shares his gripping life story with Nick, recounting his transformation from a life on the streets and in his car to being embraced by a Hawaiian family in Maui, where he discovered purpose and belonging. It was at Ho’Okipa surf break that his son, Lil’ Chris, found his passion for surfing through Jud Lau's surf camp, leading to his historic feat as the first African American surfer to conquer JAWS, paving the way for their intertwined destinies.
Transitioning from the yard scene to Nick's imagination, a vivid portrayal emerges in Nick's mind: a grandiose depiction of the Hawaiian family adorned in traditional attire, standing proudly in front of their Ohana with Big Chris in front of the chief on bended knee talking in real time whilst within Nick’s imagined flashback making this our first “drunk history” moment of the film and letting us know it could be entirely inaccurate. Here, Big Chris reveals a surprising detail about this part of his life – his past romantic involvement with the Chief's daughter! As the gravity of Big Chris's revelation lingers, the camera captures a range of awkward reactions from the Hawiian tribe in real-time, heightening the tension of the moment as we see many of them wide-eyed and motionless except the Chief who looks very upset as he turns his head to his daughter. The camera then turns to Nick within his own imagined flashback comically dressed in grass skirt and Hawaiian garb, mirroring the hilariously awkward expressions from the present, injecting a light-hearted charm into the scene. Nick awkwardly asks, “So what happened then”. Chris replied, “He kicked me out, we don’t talk to dem no more.” We then cut to Nick making a slightly awkward and non-judgemental smile as he looks at Lil Chris and realizes the backstory is getting even juicier and feels there’s a lot he’s going to have to un-pack as he gets to know Chris.
SCENE 7: BREAKING 4TH WALL TO THE WRITER’S STUDIO
Cutting from the Hawaiian “drunk history” and self-realized scene, We transition to a center-cropped, seemingly “iPhone-shot" segment, effectively breaking the fourth wall and immersing viewers in a meta moment where they meet the film's writers, Nick and Jeffrey, on a future timeline. United by their shared love for storytelling, Nick approaches Jeffrey with a palpable enthusiasm, acknowledging the extraordinary tale woven into the journey of Big Chris and his son, as they navigate the trials that led them to Maui.
In a display of creative synergy, Nick and Jeffrey forge a collaborative partnership driven by a shared vision to bring this captivating narrative to life. Recognizing the depth and relevance of the story, they meticulously craft a strategic plan to present it to the Surfing Heritage and Culture Center (SHACC), an esteemed institution they help run that is devoted to honoring and safeguarding the legacy of surfing, alongside the invaluable yet overlooked narratives embedded in ancient cultures. They have known about Africa’s ancient and mysterious history with surfing and suddenly realize Little Chris could be the poster child for the rise of Afro-surf culture the Museum has been looking for.
With a keen awareness of SHACC's pivotal role in showcasing surfing's cultural heritage on a global scale, Nick and Jeffrey aim to unlock the untold stories and nuances of Afro-surf culture that has long been marginalized or overlooked, paving the way for a broader audience to appreciate and celebrate the diverse tapestry of surfing history. Their collaboration not only underscores the power of storytelling as our catalysts for cultural preservation but also highlights the profound impact of untold narratives in shaping a more inclusive and comprehensive understanding of surfing's rich legacy the world has never acknowledged.
SCENE 8: NEWPORT BEACH, CA. / THE SURFING HERITAGE AND CULTURE CENTER (SHACC)
Nick and Jeffrey eagerly present their innovative concept, "HEART SWELL," to Spencer at the Surfing Heritage and Culture Center (SHACC), brimming with enthusiasm. This initiative aims to explore the vibrant Afro-surf culture, offering a deep dive into its richness for the museum's exhibits. Additionally, because of the difficult financial spot Nick knows that Big Chris is in, they propose sponsoring Little Chris with several custom-branded surfboards that they have designed specifically for SHACC, highlighting their commitment to intertwining cultural heritage and contemporary surfing narratives and making sure Little Chris has the tools he needs to accomplish the insanely huge dream to drop in on the world’s most beautiful big wave, PEAHI (JAWS).
In this pitch we see that Nick and Jeffrey have a professional yet comical way of pitching as they have to kind of “dress themselves up” when they do their effective “ham & eggs” way of asking for funding whereas they are usually quite eccentric and un-filtered in their thoughts and attire as we’ll see every time we break into the fifth wall. Their strategy positions SHACC as a pivotal player in preserving and showcasing cultural history, fostering a symbiotic relationship between the museum and the dynamic world of surfing. By incorporating elements of Afro-surf culture and supporting emerging talents like Lil’ Chris, they seek to ensure that SHACC remains at the forefront of celebrating and preserving the diverse legacies that define surfing's past, present, and future while also making it a very “META” opportunity for viewers of the film to know that a museum is helping change history and this young African American boy is the pen that will help write it.
SCENE 9: NICK’S HOME OFFICE / THE JET SKI
In a pivotal moment, Big Chris visits Nick's office in Maui and passionately presents an innovative idea: using a jet ski to provide ocean training for his son on a regular basis. This concept sparks a strategic discussion between Nick and Jeffrey, culminating in their decision to invest in the jet ski for Little Chris's training.
Big Chris offers to reciprocate the support by proposing a work/trade arrangement for his share of the jet ski. This arrangement entails assisting Nick with various tasks to help him renovate and improve his home. At this juncture, Nick grapples with uncertainties about affording to live in Maui and navigating off-grid living, adding a layer of complexity to their partnership and an added pressure to Nick to have to financially cover Chris’ part of the jet ski that he’ll be trading for with renovation work. Big Chris also begins to feel stress has his trade agreement means he’ll be acquiring no money for his family which brings Nick and Chris into a mutual pressure cooker that will eventually bring out their shadows to each other and reveal Chris’ struggle with racism towards white people juxtaposed with his deep friendship and gratitude for Nick and the opportunities he’s offering him.
By agreeing to this work/trade deal, not only do they secure the jet ski, but they also set the stage for an extended period of collaboration between Chris and Nick. This collaboration promises a wealth of shared time and experiences, underscoring the depth of their developing relationship and setting the stage to dig deeply into all the ways Nick’s very existence and demeanor triggers Chris’ traumatic past of hating the “white within himself” in not being purely dark black skinned and getting beat up for looking or acting anything remotely close to how Nick moves throughout the world. Nick wears eccentric clothes, an indigenous-gifted “man purse” (as Chris calls it), and looks and acts towards people in a way where he calmly doesn’t care what they think of him and it upsets Chris because he walks through the world still living in his gang-related past instead of in Maui where no one cares about the things he used to have to fend for.
SCENE 10: MONTAGE OF BIG CHRIS AT NICK’S HOUSE WORKING
The scene unfolds with a dynamic montage portraying Big Chris energetically working on various projects around Nick's house in rapid succession. Despite the expediency and cost-effectiveness of Big Chris's efforts as part of their trade agreement, the quality of his workmanship falls drastically short of expectations, leading to a series of comedic mishaps. Nick finds himself constantly enlisting the help of additional contractors to rectify Chris's subpar handiwork, creating a cycle of repairs and exasperation.
Throughout the montage, amidst the chaotic and often humorous display of Big Chris's endeavors, his frequent expletives punctuated with "Motherfucker" add a comedic flair to the narrative. Nick intermittently captures Big Chris's antics on film, documenting the unfolding saga for the documentary storyline.
As the montage progresses, a subplot emerges as Nick begins noticing items mysteriously disappearing from his home. Faced with this puzzling development, Big Chris reacts with a mix of alarm and reassurance, pledging to assist in discovering the culprit behind the disappearing possessions strengthening their bond.
In the midst of a whirlwind of events, the montage unveils a new chapter in Big Chris's life. The scenes depict tender moments between Chris, his new partner Sierra, and their newborn baby, Cypress. Cypress, a cherubic figure with white-blonde hair and captivating blue eyes, brings a sense of warmth and familial joy to the tumultuous narrative. These moments deepen the sub-plot of Big Chris immersing himself in a circle of predominantly white family and friends, contrasting with his vibrant heritage and the narrative of his strong Black roots that all eventually becomes his personal heroes journey through his internal turmoil.
SCENE 11: SIERRA
After an exhausting day of work Nick asks Big Chris if he can film some interviews with the family on his land for his documentary about them. Nick interviews Sierra, Chris’ very young and very beautiful white girlfriend and baby mama. The interview untroves that Siera’s father, a former Airline pilot whose legacy lives on in the form of this cherished estate, purchased the 10-acres of agricultural land for them to live on but the catch is that Chris has to plant and raise 100 fruiting trees to not get kicked off it as it’s not technically zoned for “dwelling spaces''. The plot thickens as Chris's mesmerizingly gorgeous life starts to patina into what seems like the tropical island version of his history of hustling in the streets of Louisiana.
After meeting his entire family, Nick inquires about how he and Sierra came together. Sierra, age 24, exudes confidence as a self-proclaimed Doula and energy worker who crossed paths with Big Chris in a serendipitous encounter on the beach. There, she was participating in a photo shoot for her OnlyFans page alongside her lovely female friends. Their initial meeting sparked an immediate connection, laying the groundwork for a budding relationship. As their bond strengthened, Sierra's assertiveness and intuitive nature took center stage, positioning her as a stabilizing presence in Big Chris's turbulent life. She adeptly navigated his struggles and inner turmoil, skillfully guiding him and ensuring he stayed focused on seizing the opportunities presented by Nick and Jeffrey to secure a promising future for their son, Lil’ Chris, in the realm of surfing.
SCENE 12: FLASHBACK / COWBOYS & INCARCERATION
After witnessing Big Chris's remarkable work ethic, Nick becomes intrigued and decides to delve deeper into the origins of Chris's honed skills. In response, Big Chris opens up about his troubled past, recounting his turbulent youth when he was involved with a Louisiana gang called the G-Strip Gang. In this gang, he carried firearms and engaged in risky activities that eventually led to his incarceration. As their friendship evolves, Chris shares a pivotal moment where he reveals he may have been responsible for someone's death, albeit unintentionally. This confession serves to illustrate the deepening bond between Nick and Chris.
To keep him away from trouble during summers, his adoptive parents, former members of the Black Panther movement, sent him to their family's all-black horse ranch. This change of scenery and focus provided Chris with a new environment and perspective, steering him away from his troubled past and towards a path of growth and development.
A cinematic transition unfolds in another “drunk history” flashback inside Nick’s imagination visually depicting a pivotal moment in Big Chris's past. As he finds himself embroiled in a physical altercation, absorbing a punch that leaves him sprawled on the ground while we see him talking to the audience about this part of his life. The camera closes in on his face as handcuffs are getting put on him and as we zoom back out the scene has seamlessly shifted to us on the horse ranch. The camera pans out, revealing Big Chris amidst the dusty corral, determinedly attempting to comically (and clearly nick’s imagination of) mount a bucking bronco, symbolizing his transition from a troubled past to a new frontier of challenges and growth with music cues and all to use this drunk history way of storytelling as a way to show how insane of a backstory this is to conceptualize into one person.
In this flashback sequence, a whimsical and surreal atmosphere is portrayed, with Nick donning a flamboyant cowboy ensemble, exaggerated in its presentation. In contrast, Big Chris appears in a slightly comical and adorned cowboy attire, complete with tassels and a lasso, as he grapples with the spirited horse in a blend of determination and amusement.
In a humorous twist during the flashback, Nick expresses his astonishment at the ranch's demographic makeup by innocently and excitedly asking, "Wait, everyone on the ranch was black!?" The scene cheekily transitions to show Nick with his face also black to fit into his imagination of the scene as he innocently poses the question, adding a dash of playful satire to the story. This moment serves as a light-hearted introduction to the very serious topic of racism that Big Chris struggles with internally as he wishes he were “more black” having been told by fellow gang members in the past that “if you light, you white”. This uncomfortable moment juxtaposes that with Nick’s love for all cultures and how he easily projects into them with how open minded he was raised having had many black friends. The topic is primed and ready for the audience to hit head on later in our story with these two characters.
SCENE 13: BAKED ON MAUI CAFE IN HAIKU, HI / INTRODUCTION TO NANO
Big Chris facilitates a meeting between Nick and Nano, a captivating waterman from Argentina who plays a vital role in the esteemed Skull Base jet ski rescue team. This introduction culminates in a significant moment as they come together for their first official recorded interview. As they engage in conversation, Nano shares his eagerness to lend his expertise in training Lil' Chris in the art of tackling challenging waves, signifying a crucial turning point in the mentorship and skills development journey for the budding young surfer.
Nano brings a unique dynamic to the interaction, infusing the scene with comic relief through his charming way with words, distinctive accent, and penchant for humor. Moreover, his adventurous spirit as an adrenaline junkie, renowned local tattoo artist, and leader of a family of young surfers adds an element of excitement and action to the narrative. Nano's inclusion not only enriches the story with his colorful personality but also sets the stage for a blend of humor, skill-building, and thrilling escapades as Lil' Chris embarks on his surfing endeavors under Nano's guidance. Because of Lil Chris’ entire adolescent life having been on Maui he is a well loved and respected soul on the island of Maui and especially on the inner core of the surf community. As we see a lot of the men in this story move through their emotions, traumatic pasts, and social dramas to make moves, Lil’ Chris is that of a ninja by staying relatively quiet most of the time, completely focusing on surfing, and being the actual key that ends up unlocking every door for them in the narrative despite their lack of or greatest efforts which becomes a comical recurring theme as our main hero essentially plays the part of a supporting character.
SCENE 14: INTERIOR OF NICK’S TRUCK / GIGOLO FLASHBACK
Deep in conversation on their way to get papers for the Jet Ski , Nick and Big Chris engage in a candid exchange aimed at building camaraderie. Seeking to foster trust and vulnerability, Nick opens up about his personal struggles, paving the way for a moment of raw honesty and connection. This vulnerable exchange prompts Big Chris to reveal a significant aspect of his own past. He candidly shares a period in his life when he was involved in promiscuous behavior, acting as a gigolo for affluent women who frequented the island for financial reasons.
As the conversation progresses, Big Chris stuns Nick with another startling revelation. He confesses to a disturbing episode from his past involving Lil' Chris, where he had the young man take explicit photographs of him for a Gigolo website he had links to in order to earn money for rent in Maui. This revelation sheds light on yet another darker and troubled chapter in Chris's history, adding complexity to his character and deepening the emotional intensity of the conversation. The scene unfolds as a gripping exploration of personal histories, unveiling layers of vulnerability, regret, and the intricate complexities of human relationships.
This “drunk history” flashback scene unfolds in Nick’s imagination with Nick assuming the role of a silent observer, capturing a poignant moment where he witnesses Lil' Chris uncomfortably snapping photographs of his father in a jungle backdrop for the illicit gigolo content. Through a series of flashback sequences, Nick's facial expressions subtly convey a mix of disbelief, concern, and perhaps a tinge of disapproval, encapsulating the emotional weight of the situation. This scene can also be portrayed with a hint of humor to it as we deepen into understanding the lengths Big Chris has gone to in order to survive and provide for his family.
In a compelling juxtaposition, the narrative transitions back to the present, portraying Nick driving the truck with a stoic, impassive expression as Big Chris concludes recounting the uncomfortable and unsettling chain of events. This stark visual of Nick's deadpan demeanor serves as a powerful contrast to the tumultuous and unsettling revelations that have unraveled, hinting at a complex web of emotions and conflicts simmering beneath the surface.
SCENE 15: 4TH WALL BROKEN TO SEE SCRIPTWRITERS
Nick and Jeffrey find themselves in the studio, engaged in a conversation about the inclusion of nudity in the script for the photoshoot that is subtly humorous in nature to watch. The discussion delves into the complexities of the unfolding narrative with both characters grappling with the surreal nature of the unfolding events. As they navigate through the implications of the scene, a sense of unease and disquiet permeates the air, underscoring the tangled and intricate web of emotions and conflicts that underpin their unfolding story. Amidst the dialogue surrounding the provocative elements of the photoshoot, the surreal and unsettling atmosphere of the moment serves to amplify the gravity of the situation, setting the stage for a profound exploration of themes and tensions that lie at the heart of the narrative.
ACT THREE
SCENE 16: KAHULUI HARBOR/ OUTER SPRECKS / TRAINING DAY WITH LIFEGUARDS
Big Chris is depicted on the shore, exuding a bravado-laden persona as he regales his companions with tales of conquering monstrous waves and navigating treacherous waters with the swagger of a seasoned gangster. Quick, humorous flashbacks pepper the scene, showcasing instances where Big Chris attempted to portray a facade of toughness and bravado while navigating the waves on a jet ski, humorously falling short of his self-professed heroic image.
In a deft shift of perspective, the scene transitions to the present moment, where Big Chris is shown out on the ski, succumbing to the humbling effects of seasickness. As he doubles over in discomfort, the facade of invincibility crumbles, revealing a vulnerable and embarrassed side to his character. Ultimately defeated by his physical limitations, Big Chris is escorted back to shore, his pride wounded and his tough-guy persona shattered which is a powerful moment to what has to happen for him to expose the softer and more approachable side of himself.
Meanwhile, Nano and Nick, observing the scene from the other ski, share a moment of reflection tinged with irony. Nano's incredulous outburst encapsulates the absurdity of the situation, as the once-boastful Big Chris is brought low by a simple bout of seasickness, highlighting the unpredictability and fragility of human bravado in the face of nature's whims. The scene serves as a poignant reminder of the juxtaposition between perception and reality, unveiling the complexities and contradictions that underscore Big Chris’ personality.
Amidst this scene unfolding Little Chris flies past them actually driving one of the ski’s. He scoops up a pretending drowner and rescues them with ease and grace and smooth as the movement of a ballet. The person he rescued was one of the safety drivers as he yells to Big Chris that his son is such a natural that he let him take a turn at driving and running the drill as the driver. This is an important focus drawn on little Chris as we see that silently through the chaos of his father he has found his way in life to maintain a silence in the noise where hoans his skills and develops a drive for his passions that is unwavering. Perhaps his father is the best training he could ever have as the waves of the sea could never be as powerful as managing the support and approval of a strong father.
SCENE 17: JET SKI WITH NANO
Nick visits Nano's place where stickers are being applied to the Jet Ski with Big Chris, surrounded by a lively scene of their children running amok and climbing all over the watercraft, adding a touch of familial chaos to the moment. The atmosphere is infused with a blend of camaraderie and joy as the day unfolds.
The dynamic takes a dramatic turn when Jeffrey arrives on the scene, clad in a Hawaiian shirt and a SHACC hat, bearing gifts for the group. Big Chris, however, reacts strongly to Jeffrey's presence, perceiving him as a superficial Hollywood figure, sparking feelings of distrust and apprehension towards the intentions of this apparent display of generosity.
Later that evening, tensions escalate as Big Chris vents his doubts and fears through a passionate text message to Nick, expressing his deep-seated mistrust towards both Nick and Jeffrey and their altruistic gestures. His inner turmoil unravels as he confesses his struggle with accepting acts of kindness from white individuals, grappling with a lifetime of conflicting racial identity and experiences of betrayal and misrepresentation.
SCENE 18: THE CONFESSION / BIG CHRIS’ SOLILOQUY
In a poignant and vulnerable moment, Big Chris finds himself standing under the moonlight, the flickering lights of the jet ski trailer casting a surreal glow around him. Overcome with emotion, he musters the courage to address Nick about his own struggles with racism towards white people, a deeply ingrained sentiment stemming from a tangled web of self-perception and societal pressures. Nick, embodying empathy and understanding, listens attentively as Big Chris opens up, providing a safe space for him to untangle his inner conflicts and confront his past demons. This heart-to-heart conversation serves as a bridge between their divergent life experiences, laying the foundation for a profound journey towards mutual comprehension and connection.
Chris bares his soul, revealing the complexity of his ethnic background, a mix of Mexican, Caucasian, and Black heritage. Growing up in a predominantly Black community, he recounts the painful adage he often heard, "If you're light, you're white," a mantra that propelled him into a perpetual battle for acceptance. Over time, this internal struggle led him to harbor resentment towards his white ancestry, fostering a deep-seated aversion towards anything associated with whiteness. Through tear-filled eyes, he expresses a plea for assistance, acknowledging Nick as the best friend he's ever had, despite the racial differences that have confounded his sense of self.
Nick, deeply moved by Chris's vulnerability, reassures him that he harbors no prejudices and genuinely desires to support him on his path to healing. He recognizes the intricate layers of Chris's internal conflict and extends a hand of friendship and understanding. Nick shares his own difficult journey of failures and how, through cultural exploration and exploring his love for diversity, that he has found deeper meaning and connection in ethnicities outside of his own more so than anything else in his life. Here we see a connection where race is not the divide, but their mutual connection and need for one another in a deeply bonded inner friendship where their diversity is what makes them stronger versus what one might think would drive them appart through healing traumas from family issues that were not of their choosing.
This transformative moment serves as a pivotal juncture in their relationship, as Nick's compassion and Chris's courage converge to foster a profound bond based on shared vulnerability and growth. Together, they set forth on a transformative voyage of self-discovery, reconciliation, and camaraderie, navigating the complexities of race, identity, and friendship with courage and compassion as guiding lights illuminating their shared path forward.
ACT FOUR
SCENE 19: JAWS / PEAHI SURF BREAK DROP-IN
In the predawn hours at Maliko Gulch, the atmosphere is charged with an aura of ancient Gladiators gearing up for a monumental spectacle as surfers and safety teams alike brace themselves for the imminent battle ahead. The scene unfolds like a modern-day epic, with each participant preparing to face the daunting challenge of conquering the legendary waves at JAWS before the arrival of renowned big wave surfers adds a sense of urgency to the race for the ultimate ride.
As the intrepid surfers navigate the tumultuous waters on their journey out to JAWS, a breathtaking sunrise paints the sky in hues of gold and pink, juxtaposed against the distant rumble of the massive waves crashing upon the shore. The majestic giants of the sea loom large in the backdrop, casting a spellbinding backdrop to the unfolding drama of human resilience and daring in the face of nature's raw power.
Amidst the adrenaline-fueled rush of the moment, Big Chris falls victim to seasickness once again, prompting Nano to step in and tow Lil’ Chris towards the towering waves, a symbolic passing of the torch as the younger surfer prepares to take on the challenge solo. As Big Chris retreats to the safety of the shore, a sense of disappointment lingers in his wake, only to be dispelled by the revelation that his son, Lil' Chris, embarks on his first big wave ride – a momentous feat achieved with his father's support from afar.
In a heartwarming turn of events, Lil' Chris conquers the waves, a proud testament to his courage and skill, offering a glimpse into a promising future filled with milestones yet to be achieved. The triumphant ride not only solidifies the bond between father and son but also propels the documentary project forward, infused with newfound energy and purpose as it charts the remarkable journey of a young surfer and his ascent to greatness amidst the towering waves of JAWS. Big Chris humbled by the comic nature of his sea sick issue yells out “yeah buddy, you did it but my ass didn’t!” By now we adore the raw honesty and openness Big Chris has and see the levels he bursts through to do absolutely anything for his son. Without his dad, Lil Chris would have never gotten on the stage, and without his son Big Chris would have never had to smash through his personal obstacles to make a better life for his son.
ACT FIVE
SCENE 20: PAIA FISH MARKET / NORA REVEALS THE THIEF
The morning after the triumphant JAWS experience, Nick serendipitously encounters Nora, a former laborer at the house that worked with Big Chris, seizing the opportunity to confide in him about the revelation concerning Big Chris’s involvement in the theft that Nick had tabled the blame for.
In that pivotal moment, a realization ignites within Nick as he revisits the intricate tapestry of his relationship with Big Chris, unraveling the tangled web of deceit and betrayal that had long clouded their interactions. A newfound clarity emerges as Nick grapples with the startling truth that, perhaps, the true thief and deceiver had been lurking in plain sight all along, masquerading behind a veil of false trust and camaraderie.
This epiphany marks a transformative juncture in Nick's journey, as he confronts the unsettling realization of being deceived and manipulated by someone he once held in high regard. The layers of deception peel away, revealing the harsh reality of a fractured bond built on deceit and hidden truths, propelling Nick towards a path of self-discovery and introspection as he unravels the complexities of trust, loyalty, and the fragility of human connections in the face of betrayal juxtaposed with his absolute love, connection and brotherhood with Chris and the journey they have been on together.
SCENE 21: NICK’S OFFICE / THE MARTIN LENNY CALL / FINALE
Big Chris resorts to manipulation in a bid to extort money from Nick and Jeffrey by fabricating a deceitful narrative involving Martin Lenny and Scott Sanchez supposedly reaching out to ensure his well-being during the documentary production process. This duplicitous ploy triggers a chain of events that ultimately unravels the facade of trust between the characters.
In a determined pursuit of truth, Nick leverages Jeffrey's connection to Martin to verify the authenticity of Big Chris's claims, only to discover that the alleged conversations never took place, exposing Big Chris's web of lies and deception. Armed with this newfound knowledge, Nick confronts Big Chris, compelling him to come clean about his false testimony and the motivations driving his dishonest behavior.
As the confrontation unfolds, Big Chris grapples with the weight of his lies, offering a bare confession to Nick about his deceitful actions and expressing a perplexed uncertainty about the underlying reasons behind his deceptive tendencies. In a moment of vulnerability, Big Chris's admission lays bare the complex interplay of insecurity, manipulation, and self-preservation that underpins his actions, shedding light on the inner turmoil driving his behavior.
Nick, now standing at a crossroads of trust and betrayal, extends an olive branch to Big Chris, providing him with an opportunity to come clean about any additional transgressions, including the thefts he is suspected of perpetrating. Big Chris pauses, verbally stumbles, and then eventually admits everything in a profound and courageous step for his character showing massive growth without a massive outward struggle. But with deep breaths and conviction. Owning himself and being the first step into a massive shift for his character in realizing what one of the final shifts he has to make for his son is. And that is a journey for himself to make inward into being a better person so that his personal story pillars and traumas do not crumble and knock over the accomplishments of his son.
Chris makes a solemn vow to transform his ways and strive for personal growth following the arrival of his third child, a momentous event that also marks the birth of his second child with Sierra on their cherished ancestral land, steeped in tradition and family ties.
Motivated by a desire to mend bridges and salvage his relationship with Nick, his steadfast friend despite a history of betrayals, Big Chris embarks on a journey of self-discovery and redemption. Engaging in men's groups, daily affirmations, and meditative practices, Chris endeavors to cultivate inner harmony and nurture a spirit of positivity, gradually shedding his ingrained prejudices and evolving into a more empathetic and trustworthy individual, especially in his roles as a father and a member of the community.
At the end of this film we amount to seeing two stories resolving simultaneously as metaphor. One tale is of Lil Chris depicted on a monstrous wave dripping in with cinematic glory to boot. Edited into this montage of the big wave drop in his son is clearly accomplishing on a global stage is the more subtle camera moves amidst a circle of men where we see (but do not hear) him orating what looks to be an explanation of how he has overcome certain things in his life, with an eager group hanging on every word. The music quiets down and we hear Big Chris take the leadership of the circle and say, “Okay who’s going to share next” signifying that not only is he in a group of personal healing, but he’s actually running it making it a bigger swell of realization. For in this montage we are to feel that what might possibly be more difficult than the journey of the body to accomplish great things, may be the journey inward to accomplish a powerful heart.