If you’re intrigued by the intense psychological thriller The Surfer (2024) starring Nicolas Cage, you might wonder where this gripping film was shot. The Surfer filming locations, primarily in Western Australia, play a crucial role in creating the movie’s tense and sun-soaked atmosphere. At NetFilming, we dive into the stunning coastal settings that bring this story to life, offering you a guide to the beaches and towns featured in the film. From rugged shorelines to vibrant surf spots, here’s everything you need to know about where The Surfer was filmed.
What is The Surfer about?
The Surfer (2024) is a gripping psychological thriller directed by Lorcan Finnegan and written by Thomas Martin, featuring a standout performance by Nicolas Cage. The film centers on a man who returns to his childhood beach in Australia to surf with his son, only to face a escalating conflict with local surfers who claim the beach as their own. This Australian-Irish co-production, supported by Screenwest, was produced by Tea Shop Productions, Arenamedia, Lovely Productions, and Gramercy Park Media.
It premiered at the Cannes Film Festival on May 18, 2024, as part of the Midnight Screenings and was selected for the 54th International Film Festival Rotterdam in February 2025. Set for theatrical release on May 2, 2025, by Roadside Attractions, the film’s intense narrative and vibrant coastal settings explore themes of identity, toxic masculinity, and psychological turmoil, earning praise for Cage’s dynamic performance.
The Surfer Filming Locations
Filming for The Surfer took place primarily in Western Australia, leveraging its stunning coastal landscapes to create the film’s tense and isolated atmosphere. Specific locations include:
Yallingup, Western Australia
Yallingup, a coastal town in Western Australia’s South West region, served as a central filming location. Known for its world-class surf breaks and rugged shoreline, Yallingup doubled as the fictional Luna Bay, where the story unfolds. Nicolas Cage was filmed here in October and November 2023, capturing scenes that highlight the town’s dramatic beaches. The area’s natural beauty, combined with its isolated feel, enhances the film’s claustrophobic tension. If you’re a fan planning a visit, Yallingup’s surf-friendly beaches are a must-see.
Margaret River, Western Australia
South of Perth, Margaret River was another vital location for The Surfer. This region, famous for its surf culture and pristine coastline, provided a backdrop that underscores the film’s psychological drama. Its unpredictable waves and remote beaches mirror the protagonist’s unraveling state of mind. Margaret River’s vibrant coastal scenery adds depth to the movie, making it a standout setting. Visitors to the area can explore its beaches and enjoy its renowned surf spots.
Busselton, Western Australia
Busselton, a popular coastal town, also featured in the film. Home to the iconic Busselton Jetty and pristine beaches, it offered a striking contrast to the story’s darker themes. The town’s scenic beauty likely served as a backdrop for key scenes, adding visual richness to the thriller. Busselton’s accessibility makes it a wonderful destination for fans wanting to experience the film’s locations firsthand.
Roebuck Bay, Western Australia
Near Broome, Roebuck Bay contributed to the film’s coastal visuals with its red cliffs and turquoise waters. While its exact role in the final cut is unclear, this location adds to the movie’s diverse and vibrant aesthetic. Roebuck Bay’s unique landscape makes it a compelling spot for those interested in the film’s settings.
Perth, Western Australia
Perth, the capital of Western Australia, supported the production as a secondary location. Although not a primary setting, it likely provided urban backdrops or logistical support. Perth’s proximity to the coastal filming sites made it a practical base for the crew. If you’re exploring the region, Perth offers a gateway to the other locations featured in The Surfer.
When Was The Surfer Filmed?
Filming for The Surfer took place from October to December 2023. The production team utilized Western Australia’s coastal environments during this period, capturing the region’s intense sunlight and vibrant colors. The single-location shoot in Yallingup, combined with other coastal sites, created the film’s isolated and immersive atmosphere. This tight filming schedule ensured the movie’s visuals perfectly aligned with its psychological tone.
“The Surfer” Behind the Scenes
The making of The Surfer (2024) was a unique blend of intense coastal filming and creative collaboration in Western Australia. The production, which ran from October to December 2023, utilized the region’s sun-drenched beaches to craft its psychological tension. Director Lorcan Finnegan described the experience, saying, “The raw energy of Yallingup’s coastline was almost a character itself, amplifying Nic’s performance” (Screenwest Interview, 2023).
Nicolas Cage, embracing the role, was drawn to the script’s exploration of identity, noting, “It’s about a man confronting who he is against this primal backdrop” (Cannes Press Conference, 2024). The tight-knit crew, supported by Screenwest’s incentives, worked efficiently to capture the film’s vivid aesthetic.
Producer Leonora Darby highlighted the local support, stating, “Western Australia’s communities and landscapes made this film possible” (Arenamedia Release, 2024). This behind-the-scenes effort shaped The Surfer into a gripping cinematic experience.
The Surfer Official Trailer
At NetFilming, we hope this guide inspires you to explore these locations, whether you’re chasing cinematic history or planning a coastal adventure. Which filming location are you most excited to visit? Let us know in the comments!
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