Having languished around the fest circuit for a few years, David Pearce's The Big Swell is finally arriving on home video courtesy of the fine folks at FilmWorks Entertainment. The Big Swell follows the life of a big winter swell in the North Pacific from its birth in the heart of a violent storm through to its death throe4s in the form of giant waves breaking at the notorious Mavericks surf break in Northern California. 

Most likely to appeal to those fascinated by both the oceans and/or surfers, The Big Swell is told through the words of renowned surfers and marine forecasters. The film nicely captures the anticipation that builds for the swell's arrival and the spirit of those for whom such an arrival is considered a memorable life event. 

The DVD also includes some cool special features including an additional interview "Shark Attack - The Dangers of Making a Surf Movie," the film's trailer, and a photo gallery. As one might expect, the film's biggest selling point is the lensing of Peck Euwer and that sense of awesomeness that tends to companion nearly every shot. 

Written by Richard Propes 
The Independent Critic