Andy Irons: Kissed by God is a documentary film that focuses on the untold story of one of the world’s most prolific surfers. Andy won three World Titles throughout his career and is regarded as “The People’s Champ” around the world, for his blue collar rise to fame and his relatability. Despite all the success, Andy’s personal demons ultimately led to the heartbreaking tragedy that became part of his legacy. Filmmakers Steve and Todd Jones interlace breathtaking cinematography with archival footage and interviews with family, friends, and Andy’s competitors. Andy Irons: Kissed by God spotlights the effect of mental illness on one of the millions who struggle with the disease every day.
The film features in-depth interviews with Andy’s brother Bruce Irons, his wife Lyndie Irons, Joel Parkinson, Nathan Fletcher, Sunny Garcia and Kelly Slater. “The time to tell Andy’s story is now, not because we want to glorify his life or accomplishments but because Andy wanted to share the truth of his struggles to educate future generations,” said his brother, Bruce Irons. “We wanted to share the whole story – both the struggles and the triumphs – and give intimate insight as to who Andy was as a whole.“
The film, three years in the making, honors the legacy of Andy Irons and focuses on his struggles with bipolar disorder and opioid addiction. This is a film about a person who lived life to the fullest, at the top of his industry, but did so facing insurmountable internal challenges. Fellow surfing champion and friend Kelly Slater said, “Andy was an absolutely gifted individual. I am lucky to have known him and had the times we had together. He was the most intense competitor I’ve ever known and one of the most sensitive people.”
Directed by Steve and Todd Jones, the World Premiere will take place in Los Angeles on Wednesday, May 2nd. The Los Angeles premiere will be followed by special premiere screenings and events in Hawaii on May 6th and New York on May 10th.
It’s being shown in cinemas in the US on the 31st of May, details here, we’ll let you know when we hear about UK/European showings.
2010 Billabong Pro Teahupoo, contest scenics
