Free and Easy (1967)

"Free and Easy," released in 1967, stands as a foundational piece in Greg MacGillivray's extensive filmography, making it an essential inclusion on any "Best Greg MacGillivray Movies" list. This early work, co-directed with his frequent collaborator Jim Freeman, showcases the nascent stages of MacGillivray's signature visual storytelling, particularly his deep appreciation for and skill in capturing the raw beauty of nature and the exhilarating freedom of surfing. The film eschews conventional narrative for a more experiential approach, immersing the viewer in the vibrant surf culture of the era and the boundless energy of the ocean. It’s a testament to MacGillivray’s ability to translate pure, unadulterated joy and the pursuit of a passion onto the screen, laying the groundwork for the breathtaking environmental documentaries he would later become renowned for. What truly solidifies "Free and Easy's" place among MacGillivray's best is its pioneering spirit and its undeniable influence on the surf film genre. It wasn't just about documenting surfing; it was about evoking the feeling of being there, a quality that would become a hallmark of MacGillivray's directorial career. The film’s innovative camera work, often at water level or capturing the surfer’s perspective, provided a visceral and unprecedented intimacy with the sport. This focus on sensory experience and authentic portrayal of a lifestyle, rather than a manufactured plot, demonstrated MacGillivray's commitment to capturing reality with artistic flair, a philosophy that would guide his subsequent award-winning IMAX and documentary features.