Maya and the Wave 12A

Filmmaker Stephanie Johnes follows the incredible and inspirational story of Brazilian big wave surfer Maya Gabeira in her award-winning documentary.

When Maya, having always dreamed of surfing giant waves, attempts to surf the infamous big wave of Nazaré, Portugal, and nearly drowns in the process, it is the beginning of an arduous and inspiring story.

But Maya has the blood of a rebel: her father is legendary activist and politician Fernando Gabeira, and with his same radical spirit, Maya endures.

Three spinal surgeries and five years later, on 18th January 2018 an unprecedented storm approaches Nazaré and Maya surfs the biggest wave a woman has ever surfed. When her accomplishment is disregarded, she must fight the misogyny and cynicism of the sport to gain the recognition she deserves.

Becoming the first female surfer honoured with a Guinness Book World Record, Maya goes on to become the first woman to compete in the men’s division of a big wave competition, surfing the biggest wave of the year, breaking the very world record she set.

In the footsteps of Billie Jean King, she has achieved a rare moment in sports – outperforming all men and showing the world that women are capable of anything.

F-Rated: Directed by Stephanie Johnes