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Mexican Summer's surfing movie w/ Allah-Las, Connan Mockasin & more screening at Nitehawk

Surfing documentaries and cool soundtracks often go hand-in-hand, but this year’s Self Discovery for Social Survival has both sides working more in tandem. The film was co-produced by outdoor brand Pilgrim Surf + Supply and record label Mexican Summer, and the latter had some of their artists — Allah-Las, Connan Mockasin, Peaking Lights and more — not only do the songs but be in the film. “The idea was to send surfers and musicians off on these trips together,” explains director and Pilgrim proprietor Chris Gentile who shot the film in Mexico, the Maldives, and Iceland. “Get them out there amongst it — in the surf, in the afterglow of the surf, talking story at dinner, just all the great stuff that happens on a surf trip. Then, right after their trips, the musicians jump into the studio and compose based on their experiences. With their hair still wet, so to speak.” The late Jonas Mekas, of NYC’s Anthology Film Archives, narrates the film and you can watch the trailer and a clip featuring Connan Mockasin, as well as listen to the excellent soundtrack, below.

The film is out now through on-demand streaming services, but you can see it on the big screen at Nitehawk Williamsburg on August 28. Following the screening, director Chris Gentile will discuss the film with surf journalist Tyler Breuer, and before the film Nitehawk will screen documentary short Nu Rhythmo, which is about both the waves and the music of West Africa. The night is part of the BrooklynVegan-presented Music Driven series and tickets are on sale now.

Related: Allah-Las have a new album out this fall and will be on tour as well