By JACKIE MOE
Coast-hugging Highway 1 is known for its scenic backdrop and its cruise-worthy conditions. It’s this California state route that the new 805 Beer Film “Convergence” takes place starring three surf and skateboard icons.
The film follows 805 Authenticos and American pro surfers Conner Coffin (Santa Barbara) and Nate Tyler (Cayucos), with pro surfer and skateboarder Greyson Fletcher (San Clemente).
In a real-life conversational format, the three friends take a surf trip up north on the famous highway, sharing personal stories of surfing and life journeys along the way.
Directed by Perry Gershkow, the film had its world premiere in Huntington Beach at the 2023 U.S. Open of Surfing. Dustin Hinz, CMO of Firestone Walker Brewing Company shared the magic of the short film with Backstage SoCal.
What attracted you to the idea of producing the film “Convergence” in collaboration with the 805 beer brand? How do you plan to bring the brand’s essence into the storytelling?
We wanted to create a revealing look into the lives of three individuals who exemplify modern California surf culture. We learn what drives them, and how they each came to the sport in their own unique way. These are the kinds of stories that 805 Beer was born to tell.
What is particularly special about the story of Conner Coffin and Nate Tyler alongside Greyson Fletcher that inspired the production of this film?
They are all homegrown surfers who are at the top of their respective games, but who all got there in distinct and different ways. We loved the idea of showing how they all achieved their dreams on their own individual terms, which goes right to the heart of the 805 ethos.
The “Convergence” film has a specific message or theme – from your perspective, how would you describe the message? What do you hope the audience will take from this story?
The message is simple: chase your passions. Conner, Nate and Greyson are inspiring individuals. They show that anything is possible. It’s a message that is ultimately larger than surfing and that speaks to what makes California great.
How did you plan to align the film’s narrative with the marketing goals of 805 beer?
Telling authentic stories has been the core of 805 Beer since day one. It’s intrinsic to the culture we’ve built around 805. Additionally, 805 is the craft beer partner of the World Surf League, and the film is naturally aligned with our longtime involvement in California surf culture.
“Convergence” involves capturing real-life scenarios or events related to the surfer and skater culture. How did you plan to ensure authenticity and accuracy in portraying these aspects of these three athletes?
The film is in their own words, and that’s by design. It doesn’t get more authentic than that.
World premiere in Huntington Beach at the 2023 U.S. Open of Surfing
“Convergence” is live at https://www.805beer.com/convergence-805-beer-film and 805 Beer’s YouTube channel
 and Nate Tyler (Cayucos), with pro surfer and skateboarder Greyson Fletcher (San Clemente).){kind=link}