The influential documentary Bustinʼ Down the Door is making a triumphant return this summer to mark its 50th anniversary, and fans won’t pay a dime to experience it on the big screen. A special East Coast tour, featuring free admission and live Q&A sessions with surf legend Shaun Tomson, begins August 1 in North Carolina and Virginia.
A Revolutionary Wave in Surfing
Originally set against the backdrop of winter 1975 on Oʻahu’s North Shore, the film chronicles the arrival of a bold cohort of surfers from Australia and South Africa—including Shaun Tomson, Wayne “Rabbit” Bartholomew, Ian Cairns, Mark Richards, and Peter Townend—whose aggressive style and disruptive attitude ignited a cultural shift in the sport. Their quest not only reshaped local surf culture but also helped launch the modern professional surfing era, which now spans billions in global influence.
The documentary, narrated by Edward Norton, unfolds with rare archival footage, personal interviews from Kelly Slater to Andy Irons, and a compelling soundtrack featuring David Bowie, Iggy Pop, and Leonard Cohen.
Tour Dates and Events
Each free screening includes a live Q&A with Shaun Tomson, widely regarded as one of the most influential surfers in history, with personal anecdotes, reflections on surf culture, and behind-the-scenes stories from the film.
August 1 (Friday), 7–9 PM — First Flight High School, Kill Devil Hills, NC
August 2 (Saturday), 7–9 PM — The Shack, Virginia Beach, VA
August 3 (Sunday), 6–8 PM — Marsh’s Surf Shop, Atlantic Beach, NC
Why This Tour Matters
Celebrating half a century since the surf revolution depicted in the film, this tour is more than a retrospective. It’s a chance to connect with the pioneers who challenged norms and transformed surfing into a global phenomenon.
Critics have praised the documentary:
Kelly Slater, 11-time World Champion:
“A breakout film… shows what happens when ego and historical problems clash”
Variety:
“Sizzling from start to finish.”
Surfliner’s Jim Kempton called it “a powerhouse spellbinder.”
The tour is presented in partnership with the heritage surf brand Instinct, known for its roots in performance surfing and cultural authenticity.
About Shaun Tomson and Instinct
Surfer, hall-of-famer, best-selling author, and motivational speaker, Shaun Tomson has long been revered for his pioneering role in professional surfing. Through presentations like these exclusive Q&A sessions, Tomson brings insight, perspective, and personal stories from his storied career.
Instinct, originally forged during surfing’s golden age, helps bring this anniversary tour to life, reaffirming its reputation for championing surf culture and authenticity for a new generation.
How to Attend
Admission to all screenings is free and open to surf fans, film lovers, and anyone seeking an inspiring story of courage, passion, and cultural change. Space is limited, so early arrival is advised.
For photos, film clips, and upcoming tour information, visit bustindownthedoorfilm.com
This cinematic retrospective offers more than nostalgia. It’s an invitation to witness the moment when surfing transformed from counterculture to cultural impact. Don’t miss your chance to see history in motion and hear it straight from the legends who made it.
Media Contact
Phone: 818-636-0828
Email: hello@freshandsmoked.com
Website: www.bustindownthedoorfilm.co
Tour & Booking:
Email: st@shauntomson.com
Website: www.shauntomson.com
