Jack Johnson: SURFILMUSIC | Sydney Film Festival 2026
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Date Reviewed: 03/06/2026
There are people who think of Jack Johnson as a singing troubadour with an acoustic guitar. In this documentary by his friend and fellow surfing buddy, Emmett Malloy, that image is challenged. The film in fact shows that Johnson has many more feathers to his cap, as this humble musician is also a capable filmmaker. But first, there was a helluva lotta surfing and wipeouts with mates.
This film is like a triptych of Johnson’s fave things. At the heart of this is a beautiful, well-lived life. He talks with a rare-eyed affection about his wife and kids. You can also see how close he is with his friends and it is apparent that these lifelong friendships were forged over trying to catch the biggest, most-elusive waves.
Johnson is a mega music star but he is also a humble one. There are no airs and graces about him. That is evident in virtually every scene where he seems happiest with his shoes off and the sand between his toes. His songs – those little gems are like stories in their own rights – provide an excellent backdrop, as this narrative explores both his past and present in detail.
Therea re two other famous faces in this film. Musician, Ben Harper recalls the pair’s first tour (he considers this a “joint” one even though Johnson was opening). Pro surfer Kelly Slater meanwhile, recounts those evenings the pair spent staying up all night to hand-craft guitars. Oh, and never mind that Slater went on to win massive surfing titles by day, it is no biggie.
“SURFILMUSIC” is an interesting documentary about Johnson’s life and his gorgeous, melodic music. It’s a story that feels really beautiful, personal, and authentic. Here, we are treated to witnessing the many facets of Johnson’s charismatic personality. I defy you not to walk away thinking, “What a lovely guy!”
By: Natalie Salvo