Maya And The Wave
Stephanie Johnes
USA | 2023 | 95 | Unclassified 15+
Regional Premiere

Filmmaker Stephanie Johnes' thrilling documentary follows world-champion Brazilian surfer Maya Gabeira, who battles against monster waves as well as chauvinism in the field of competitive surfing.

Maya Gabeira grew up in Brazil with a dream to surf competitively. Like any surfer, she had to overcome the hazards of the ocean through training and discipline. But she was also forced to confront deep chauvinism in the male-dominated sport as naysayers second-guessed her every move.

In Maya and the Wave, we follow Gabeira on a quest to break a world record in the Portuguese town of Nazaré, known for its big waves. Filmmaker Stephanie Johnes follows Maya over several years as she perseveres through setbacks, injuries, and a near-death experience to pursue her goal.

“Beautiful and inspiring. Magnificent.” – Deadline

“Jaw-dropping.” - Variety

Contact the host of Maya And The Wave | Bangalow Film Festival 2025