Influences in surf films..

I know this is the biggest cliche of them all, but I have to say that Jack Johnson is a huge influence in what I am intending to do. He made "September Sessions" for his dissertation and my thoughts are that if he can do it, so can I! The style at which he does his, is very soulful and calm. I intend in portraying the surfing lifestyle throughout the film in an artistic, relaxing and happy mood. One of Jack Johnson's most famous accomplishments was a film called "Thicker Than Water". This was once again filmed in the same style. It has plenty of soul, a great soundtrack and creates a real feel for the audience to absorb themselves in.
I have also realised that although the main part of any film is the motion picture, for surf movies especially, the soundtrack plays a huge part on whether the film will become either a success or a failure.
Within the UK there are some films which have interested me and given me some ideas on what to include and also what not to include. One of these films was called "A Blank Canvas" by Mickey Smith. His film was once again an artistic and soulful approach to the surfing lifestyle that I would like to portray in mine as well. I will elaborate on the style I am interested in creating at a later date.