Surf + Turf // Taiwan

Taiwan has long been known as a manufacturing hub and for innovation in tech and beyond. But, we would like to explore the island for it’s rugged beauty, the kind spirit of it’s people and all the unique culinary and cultural delights it has to offer . . . oh, and there are waves. We figure that the best way to explore is not through a windscreen, but at the more human pace of bikes.

How it works

We’ll start with a high speed train ride to the farthest southern region of the island. Once we get our bikes squared away with boards strapped on, we’ll then start pedaling along the coast to find the premiere surf spots on the southern tip of the island. From there we will trek north along the rugged east coast of Taiwan and scour the beach for peaks along the way. Eventually we will end up in the capital, Taipei, and

We believe this trip is a perfect way to talk about how perceptions mislead reality. Taiwan is not an extension or part of any other realm . . . it is it’s own place, with it’s own magic, that deserves a rich identity apart from the rest of the world.

Our goal is to understand Taiwanese culture through the lens of bikes, surfboards, camaraderie and explorations. Lastly, we’ll focus on catching both the laughs and vulnerabilities. Ride time jokes and punctured tires, silly faces and snapped boards, etc.

The Details

proposed dates: 10 days, September-November 2026 . . . swell dependent!

Robin Sansom - co-director, principal cinematography, production

Chris McClean - co-director, photography, 8mm/dad cam

Chris McNally - illustration, design

riders/surfers: 1 international pro surfer of reasonable fame that is willing to ride bikes, 1 international bike pro with amazing handling skills and has an interest in surfing, 1 local (Taiwanese) bike or surf pro . . . with a mix of genders.

Story Arc

Present the core question early in the film: How does Taiwan cease to be looked at by outsiders as a sum of it’s industry or influences, but rather a place that is already whole and vibrant? Then answer this question by showing the island for what it is, with dramatic, beautiful footage of all aspects of life (city, coast, mountains, people, food, industry, architecture, etc.).

We will develop a voiceover script that will be narrated by a Taiwanese voice artist, that will set the tone for film and help the footage transition between scenes.

Key stops would include a some places to show off mt bike skills (pump track, bike park, urban features, etc), quiet surf breaks with good waves, a hike with a waterfall, a glimpse into a factory, Taipei architecture tour