Tag Archives: the Dallas International Film Festival

Two hot IFC movies edging their way to DVD

Laird Hamilton is perhaps the greatest big wave surfer of all time, a living legend who has tamed some of the world’s mightiest waves. Among the surf community, he is also one of the most controversial figures, an innovator who has revolutionized the sport often to the dismay of purists. The thrilling, up-close portrait Take Every Wave: The Life of Laird Hamilton (IFC Films) traces his remarkable journey, from his rebellious childhood in Hawaii to his fearless first forays into surfing to his relentless pursuit of ever-bigger waves, a quest that ultimately led him to conquer what’s been called “the heaviest wave ever ridden.”

Academy Award-nominated director-producer Rory Kennedy blends candid interviews with breathtaking action footage  to create a visceral, white-knuckle look at a life lived on the edge.


One of the most renowned card magicians of all time, Richard Turner astounds audiences around the world with his legendary sleight of hand. What they may not even realize, and what makes his achievements all the more amazing, is that he is completely blind. Charting Turner’s colorful life from his tumultuous childhood to the present, Dealt (IFC Films) reveals how through determination and force of will, he overcame seemingly insurmountable obstacles to rise to the top of his profession.

The  film is both a tantalizing, up-close look at the secretive world of magic and a candid, awe-inspiring portrait of a man who lives beyond his limitations. The IFC Films theatrical release has been widely honored, including winning the audience award for best documentary at SXSW, the Dallas International Film Festival and the Independent Film Festival of Boston.