Fielder Films, a small but mighty studio based in Oceanside, California, is making waves in the world of surf filmmaking. Founded by Ben Weiland and Brian Davis, their unique approach to storytelling not only captures the thrill of surfing in wild, remote locations but also delves into the human stories that make the sport so meaningful. With a recent expansion into YouTube, Fielder Films continues to explore the intersection of adventure and storytelling, leaving audiences in awe and inspiring them to seek their own adventures.
Weiland's journey into surf filmmaking began with a personal passion for surfing and a fascination with the sport in wild, beautiful places. His time studying abroad in New Zealand exposed him to the rugged beauty of surfing in the South Island, where the sport takes on a whole new level of adventure. This experience led him to start the Arctic Search Blog, researching waves in cold places like Alaska and the Arctic. Weiland's work with SURFER magazine and Chris Burkard further fueled his passion for filmmaking, leading him to quit his day job and fully immerse himself in the world of video production.
Davis, on the other hand, brought a different skill set to the table. With a background in coffee and running a local cafe, he shared Weiland's love for film and together they formed Fielder Films. Their collaboration has resulted in a unique blend of adventure and storytelling, capturing the spirit of exploration and the human stories that make surfing so captivating.
One of Fielder Films' most notable projects is 'Island X,' where they scoured the Bering Sea for an undiscovered wave on a remote island. The journey was challenging, requiring them to navigate uncharted waters and make difficult decisions about how to access the island. Despite the obstacles, the film captures the sense of wonder and adventure that comes with exploring unknown territories.
'Volcano Island' is another standout project, taking the filmmakers to the frigid waters of Alaska in search of the eponymous island. The film showcases the brothers' determination to succeed on their mission, highlighting the human stories that make the sport so compelling. By incorporating elements like an abandoned military base and a mammoth skeleton, Fielder Films adds depth and intrigue to their narratives.
The studio's recent expansion into YouTube is a testament to their commitment to sharing their adventures with a wider audience. Through their channel, they continue to explore the world, seeking out new waves and the human stories that make each location unique. This expansion allows them to reach a broader audience and inspire others to embark on their own adventures.
Looking ahead, Weiland and Davis have an exciting list of projects in the works. They are currently collaborating with Dane Gadauskas and Ellie Thor in Iceland, and have a number of other semi-developed ideas that they are eager to explore. With their passion for surfing, adventure, and storytelling, Fielder Films is poised to continue making waves in the world of surf filmmaking, inspiring audiences to seek their own adventures and embrace the spirit of exploration.
