Tyler Atkins is a filmmaker, seeker, and healer who has spent most of his years surfing along Australia’s coast. His lifestyle has left a lasting imprint on his worldview and creativity. Atkins has established a niche in the world of independent cinema by blending raw storytelling with spiritual perspectives.
Tyler Atkins’ Surfing and Creative Work
Before Atkins ventured into filmmaking, he was deeply immersed in the surf world, having grown up in Australia’s surf culture, where he spent much of his time riding waves and embracing the natural rhythm of coastal living. This connection to nature and freedom would later influence the visual and emotional tone of his films. In the 2000s, he was featured in surf magazines including Transworld Surf, Surfing Magazine, and Surfer. He has made appearances in surf films including Creepy Fingers, Year Zero, and Strange Rumblings in Shangri-La.
Atkins casually went into fashion design, creating clothing inspired by his lifestyle and spiritual beliefs. His creative instincts kicked in when he began writing and producing short films. One of his early works, The Love Effect in 2016, showcased his ability to tell heartfelt stories with minimal resources, earning praise for its sincerity and emotional depth.
Atkins’ breakthrough came in Bosch & Rockit, a feature film he wrote, directed, and produced during the COVID-19 pandemic. The film, starring Luke Hemsworth and Rasmus King, is a coming-of-age drama set against the backdrop of the Australian coastline. It tells the story of a young boy who embarks on a road trip with his father, unaware that they are fleeing legal trouble. The film explores themes of forgiveness, fatherhood, and emotional healing, and was loved for its authenticity and visual beauty.
Bosch & Rockit won the Grand Jury Prize at the 2022 Mammoth Film Festival and was praised for its raw portrayal of familial bonds and personal growth. Atkins contributed to the Apple TV+ series Shantaram, working in the writers’ room and assisting on set with director Justin Kurzel. His work has been inspired by his childhood, emotional challenges, and healing journey. He partnered with surf film maker Joe Guglielmino and founded accessories brand, Octopus Is Real, combining their creative and entrepreneurial interests.
Atkins is a seeker and dedicated practitioner of Kundalini yoga and meditation. He begins each day before sunrise with spiritual practice. His commitment to self-awareness and healing is evident in both his personal life and his creative work. Atkins’ creative decision is driven by emotional authenticity over commercial success. His personal life is a blend of adventure grounded by spiritual discipline and a desire to grow as a human being.
Tyler Atkins’ Early Life and Evolution
Tyler Atkins grew up in the beach culture, surfing along Australia’s coast. His journey from a teen surfer and surf-film subject to director, writer, and producer of a deeply personal film is a testament to the power of self-awareness, creative courage, and the belief that deeply felt stories can resonate with people. Atkins also values simplicity and connection. He often returns to the beach lifestyle that shaped him, finding peace in nature and community.
