Point of Change is a reflective and somewhat melancholic documentary directed by Rebecca Coley that explores the long-lasting effects of colonialism and tourism, particularly in the context of the small Indonesian island of Nias. In the 1970s, Nias was a remote, undeveloped island when two Australian surfers, John Geisel and Kevin Lovett, discovered it while searching for new waves. Their discovery, along with that of surf explorer Peter Troy and his girlfriend Wendy Adcock, marked the beginning of Nias’ undoing.
What started as a surf paradise soon turned into a cautionary tale of the consequences of unchecked tourism. As word spread about Nias’ surf potential, hordes of tourists arrived, bringing with them pollution, drugs, alcohol, and sex tourism. The island’s once-idyllic charm was irrevocably damaged.
Coley leans into this eerie atmosphere by weaving in the local belief in shamanism and dark magic, adding a spooky edge to the proceedings that both enhances and slightly detracts from the film’s more serious themes.
Visually, Point of Change is punctuated by vibrant, psychedelic animations that capture the free-spirited, trippy vibe of the 1970s. These animations work well in the first half of the film, providing an engaging way to tell the backstory of the surfers and their discovery of Nias. However, when the story shifts to introduce Bonne Gea, a local woman who became a champion surfer after being inspired by the foreign visitors, the tone feels a bit inconsistent.
The grainy surf footage is sure to appeal to fans of the sport, offering a nostalgic look at a time when untouched waves were still out there to be found. While the film sometimes dips too far into mysticism, the overall result is a thoughtful and engaging documentary about the unforeseen consequences of paradise.
Coley does an admirable job of balancing the nostalgia for Nias’ early days as a surf haven with the darker consequences that followed. The juxtaposition of surfers revelling in paradise with scenes of environmental degradation and the rise of exploitative industries creates a sense of loss that permeates the film.
Featuring exclusive music from renowned British DJ and producer Paul Oakenfold, Point of Change adds an atmospheric layer to its storytelling, underscoring the emotional and cultural shifts experienced by the Nias community and their way of life.
The film succeeds in raising important questions about the consequences of westerners’ fascination with “exotic” locations, and how even well-meaning adventurers can leave a trail of destruction in their wake. Ultimately, Point of Change is more than just a surfing documentary — it’s a thoughtful exploration of how paradise can be both found and lost in the same breath.
Point of Change is in Cinemas Now.
