STOKE CHASERS
Shot almost entirely on 16mm, "Queens of the Break" gives credit to the pioneers of women’s surfing in the 805 and celebrates a friendship that has spanned over 50 years.
Credits
Directors: Jo Anna Edmison & Jordyn Romero
Short Film Editor: Jo Anna Edmison
Longer Film Editor: Ari Bre Bre
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FESTIVALS
DIRECTORS
Jo Anna's artistic journey began against the backdrop of Southern California's diverse and vibrant culture. While studying art and design at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, she discovered she was inspired most by the ordinary moments that make life extraordinary. Jo Anna turned her attention to photography and videography, laying the foundation for her future in filmmaking.
Edmison's unique approach to filmmaking sets her apart. Her love affair with 16mm film and Super 8 is a testament to her dedication to preserving the authenticity and charm of analog practices. In an age dominated by digital technology, Jo Anna's commitment to these mediums adds a nostalgic and visually stunning quality to her documentaries.
Jo Anna's talent has not gone unnoticed, and her short documentary works have garnered acclaim at prestigious film festivals. In 2020, she received the Best Student Documentary awards at both the SLO Film Festival and the Big Sur Film Festival for her film Stoke Chasers, acknowledging her ability to craft compelling narratives. The recognition continued in 2022, with Jo Anna securing the Best Documentary Short award at the SLO Film Festival for her film Freedom of Flow, cementing her status as a rising star in the world of documentary filmmaking.
Jordyn is an award-winning filmmaker known for creating powerful, globally resonant films. Hailing from the Rocky Mountains of Santa Fe, Jordyn's upbringing ignited her deep love for the outdoors. Armed with a BFA in documentary filmmaking from Chapman University, she has produced work internationally (Sri Lanka, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Scotland, France, Switzerland, Italy, Canada, and Mexico to name a few). Amplifying voices that need to be heard, she explores stories of womanhood, identity, and the human spirit.
Her acclaimed film, We Are Like Waves (2022), tells the story of one of the first female surfers in Sri Lanka. The film achieved distribution by The Los Angeles Times, received awards at numerous festivals, and propelled Jordyn to be recognized as an Oscar-Qualifying director.
Jordyn works primarily as a director and producer in documentary filmmaking, branded content, and commercials. She isn't afraid to get her hands on a camera either - whether submerged in pumping surf or trekking through remote locations with a backpack filled with camera gear and electrolytes. She's directed and produced work for brands like Patagonia, Salomon, The North Face, and Specialized.
THE SHORT
In the sun-drenched coastal haven of the 805, where the rhythmic pulse of the ocean harmonizes with the whispers of history, "Queens of the Break" emerges as a captivating short film that pays homage to the unsung heroines of women's surfing. Shot almost entirely on 16mm film, this cinematic gem unfolds within the confines of seven minutes, offering just a glimpse into the remarkable lives of the pioneers who dared to ride the waves and redefine the sport.
The film is a visual ode to the enduring friendship that has spanned over 50 years among a group of women who not only conquered the break but carved their names into the very essence of California's surf culture. Directors Jo Anna Edmison and Jordyn Romero, two dynamic young voices in the world of filmmaking, present a concise yet impactful narrative that sets the stage for a larger, more profound story waiting to be unpacked.
"Queens of the Break" made its debut at the prestigious Mountainfilm in 2023, capturing the hearts of audiences with its powerful storytelling and evocative visuals. The film has since graced the screens of The Santa Barbara Surf Film Festival, Coast Film Festival, SLO Film Festival, and The Women's Surf Film Festival, leaving an indelible mark on the surf film circuit.
Within this seven-minute piece, viewers are transported to an era where the ocean wasn't just a playground; it was a stage where these trailblazing women challenged norms and forged a friendship that has withstood the test of time. The 16mm film lends a timeless quality to the visuals, enhancing the nostalgic journey into the heart of women's surfing history.
"Queens of the Break" is a testament to the power of storytelling, celebrating the resilience, camaraderie, and triumphs of the Queens who rode the waves of change. As the film paves the way for a longer, more comprehensive exploration of these important stories, audiences are left eagerly anticipating the untold chapters waiting to be unveiled.
This short film is more than just a glimpse; it's a promise of a larger, more profound narrative that will delve deeper into the lives of these extraordinary women. "Queens of the Break" is a poignant tribute to the pioneers, a celebration of friendship, and an invitation to witness the rich history of women's surfing that continues to shape the waves of the Central Coast of California.
THE LONGER FILM
Following the success of the seven-minute short, "Queens of the Break" is set to expand into a longer and more immersive exploration of the pioneers of women's surfing in the 805. Directors Jo Anna Edmison and Jordyn Romero along with editor Ari Bre Bre, will delve deeper into the lives of these extraordinary women, offering an extended narrative that brings forth richer character development, more anecdotes, and a profound connection to the entirety of their stories.
As we extend beyond the initial glimpse, audiences can anticipate a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges, triumphs, and unique journeys that define each "Queen" of the Break. The longer film promises to unravel additional layers of friendship, resilience, and the cultural impact these women have had on the surfing landscape.
With a dedication to preserving history, the extended "Queens of the Break" will go beyond the surface, presenting an intimate portrayal that captures the essence of each surfer's contribution to the shaping of the Central Coast's surf culture. Through extensive interviews, more archival footage, and an in-depth exploration of the anecdotes that define these women's connection to each other and the ocean, the film aims to provide a profound and authentic perspective on their remarkable lives.
As the Queens of the Break share more about their experiences and friendships, the film becomes a powerful testament to the strength and camaraderie that have endured over half a century.
"Queens of the Break" in its extended form is more than a surf documentary; it's a celebration of resilience, a tribute to friendship, and an important chapter in the broader narrative of women's surfing history. With an extended runtime, this film invites viewers to ride the waves of emotion, connection, and inspiration as we honor the legacy of these remarkable women who shaped the surf culture of the 805.
