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SYNOPSIS
Inspired by a true story of best friends (Dayne & Lance) who mysteriously lose touch, then reunite when Dayne discovers that Lance is dying of AIDS. A journey ensues as spiritual enlightenment unfolds through sea, sand and nature, embracing acceptance of the inevitable death of his best friend and the rising of consciousness. A Long Road to Tao will encourage audiences to reach a depth of becoming water, facing fears and accepting the flow of love as love.
OFFICIAL TRAILER
REVIEWS
“We are proud to honor this extraordinary film, a labor of love that has been decades in the making. The director’s unparalleled ability to capture and realize this visionary story shines brilliantly throughout every frame, showcasing his dedication and masterful storytelling skills. The film features outstanding performances by both main character actors, who bring real-life individuals to the screen with such authenticity and emotional depth that their portrayals transcend mere imitation. They embody their characters with a sincerity that breathes life into this important and moving narrative, avoiding any hint of caricature.”
-- Jacquelynn Wolfheart, Wolf Media Festival
“It truly calls upon the works and life of Jack Kerouac and even Steinbeck, imbuing the author’s journey with a literary quality not so different from the works of his own heroes.”
-- The Black List
Inspired by the book Tao of Surfing: Finding Depth at Low Tide, this film follows the true story of two best friends—Dayne and Lance—whose paths mysteriously diverge, only to reconnect when Dayne discovers that Lance is dying of AIDS. What unfolds is a poignant, ocean-soaked journey of reconnection, spiritual awakening, and ultimate acceptance.
It’s a quiet, powerful reminder that love—real love—doesn’t always need to shout to be heard. Sometimes, it just flows.
-- Cindi Busenhart of Merge4
A beautiful film about two best friends who encounter true friendship, when one of them disappears to deal with the torment of having AIDS. Lance has AIDS, and his friend Dayne travels through the West to find him. The photography is spellbinding, with the gorgeous views of the California coast and New Mexico desert. The story is gripping and viewers will want to discuss the issues brought up in the film. The acting performances are really good making the characters stand out. I also really enjoyed the music. After watching this film, you will understand the spiritual feelings surfers have in being one with the water. I would highly recommend this film to anyone interested in surfing, friendship, issues with AIDS, and all who want a good story with beautiful scenery and characters that you will care about. This film was shot by students of the Creative Media Institute of the New Mexico State University, and is a fine example of the work college students are capable of.
-- Amazon Prime Review
Such an inspiring movie to watch about what true friendship is and means. So many beautiful areas they filmed this at. I was truly touched to watch a movie about the meaning of life and death and what is important and seeking these questions can only bring us closer to knowing ourselves and our true potential better. Illness can sometimes show us what is most important and who in our lives and I think the characters figure this out with their friendship. Thank you for sharing such a touching movie with the world. I recommend watching this !!!
-- Amazon Prime Review
This brave film offers an authentic, compassionate and sensual journey on the adventure of self hood, and a life examined fully. Every frame captured personal Beauty, Wisdom, Love and more. This is an important groundbreaking film. Raw unself conscious emotion and spontaneous self reflection take the viewer on a wild ride of confronting the many taboos of society, intimacy, homosexuality, voluntary death with dignity and spiritual meaning. Please watch, share and talk about this film!
The world needs this more than ever!
-- Amazon Prime Review
This film strikes you in your heart. With all that we’re divided over politically, culturally & spiritually, this beautiful film shows that friendship, empathy, compassion & our common humanity can heal our divisions. Such an important & timely film for our world today.
-- Amazon Prime Review
The movie A Long Road to Tao is a moving and visually poetic meditation on love, loss, and spiritual awakening. Inspired by a true story about two best friends forced to confront the mortality of one of them, rather than dwelling on grief alone, the film’s weaves physical and spiritual landscapes into a unified experience offering a powerful exploration of acceptance, impermanence, and love.
-- Amazon Prime Review
AWARDS
Alex Carig - Director
Co-Screenwriter
Alex's work includes thirty years in the feature film industry, broadcast radio and local television. Alex's life work encompasses his ambition to find socially relevant stories that entertain, educate, and enlighten, using visual mediums to bring greater awareness to compelling topics that challenge us on a personal level. Alex is the visionary who presented A Long Road to Tao to New Mexico State University, the first of its kind to incorporate 25 film production students in all aspects of development.
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