
The opening moments of "Psyche Out" introduce a young boy who craves the adventures achieved in the surf. The boy -- or at least his dreams -- seem like they could provide a recurring framing device for Walt Phillips' third film (following "Sunset Surf Craze" and "Surf Mania"), but that's the last we see of the boy or hear of ambitions. "Psyche Out" contains less poetic musing, travelogue, comic relief or similar stuff characteristic of surf films of the time, in favor of surf action at Malibu, Point Zero, Rincon and Steamer Lane. This is to the benefit of the film.
Directed by Walt Phillips, Psyche Out leans on a strong ensemble — Lance Carson, Skip Frye, Michael Hynson — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.
The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about screen titles of 1962.
Read More on the Blog
Loading reviews…
Bruce Brown's The Endless Summer is one of the first and most influential surf movies of all time. The film documents American surfers Mike Hynson and Robert August as they travel the world during California’s winter (which, back in 1965 was off-season for surfing) in search of the perfect wave and ultimately, an endless summer.
Get weekly picks and blog posts in your inbox.
Live availability isn't tracked for this title yet — try these popular platforms: