Bunker 77 (Takuji Masuda, 2016)

Reviewed by Stephen Clark. Viewed at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival 2017.

Bunker 77 was a film about the true story of Bunker Spreckles and the mark that he left on the earth, the surfing community as a whole, and the legacy that he left behind. Bunker’s legacy in Hawaii started with his grandfather who was a mogul of the sugar trade and left a fortune to his name. He was also the stepson of world renowned actor Clark Gable or “The King of Hollywood” that paved way for his image as a Hollywood playboy, or surfer/pimp. In his late teenage years, Bunker lived off the land of Hawaii, sleeping in the forests, or seeking refuge at the surfing house on the Banzai Pipeline. Oahu served to be his proving grounds to become the surfing legend he is known as today by changing the game by riding board shapes that are used today in high performance surfing, and surfing breaks unimaginable with his insane speed. Bunker’s humble days did not last for long as he soon inherited the fortune from his grandfather and became a millionaire overnight. Bunker kept the promises to his friends as much as he could that he would remain loyal and stay grounded after receiving the inheritance. His sober days did not last long for the money soon led to insane parties, luxurious surf vacations, women, drugs and fame. Bunker constantly played with his appearance as he was intent on becoming a Hollywood star. He studied the conventions of African American pimps, trained with kung-fu legends, and built his reputation into one of the most colorful reputations ever.

Bunker’s story is well documented through exceptional quality film, and captures an exotic life filled with drugs, fashion, and love. He acted as a mentor to skateboarding legend Tony Alva in his quest to become one of the most regarded skateboarders to this day. His story is also told with interviews of surfing legend Laird Hamilton, and several of his close friends that were by his side in his life. Bunkers life tragically ended at age 27 as his drug habits took over his life and lost control. Some said that what killed Bunker wasn’t the drugs but that he lost himself and his true identity.

Takuji Masuda does an incredible job of directing the film and displaying the real life story of legend Bunker Spreckles and the everlasting imprint on the world. The production enhances the story as the alternating between archival footage of Bunker Spreckles’ life and footage shot on set for the movie adds to the story by decorating his experiences. I saw this film at Metropolitan Metro 4 Theatre during the Santa Barbara International Film Festival and this was the most intriguing documentary by far. Bunker 77 is relatable to most of the films showed at the Santa Barbara Film Festival as legacy, and identity serve as a recurring theme. Anyone interested in surfing, documentaries, films, or an amazing story would be delighted with this film and I highly recommend it to anyone.