Rocco Up began as a serendipitous meeting of surfing enthusiasts in Ditch Plains, Montauk. Weekend after weekend, season after season, Kevin McCann had observed Ben Intonato and his autistic son Rocco together on a surfboard. One day, Kevin approached Ben with the idea of making a documentary about teaching Rocco to surf. An emotional “Yes!” ensued. Kevin then shared his concept with filmmaker John Madere, who agreed to direct. John asked long-time colleague Ruth Mamaril to edit the film. She has a personal connection to autism, and tells Rocco’s story from several different perspectives. Don Intonato, Rocco's grandfather, Montauk poet and businessman, formed Ditch Plains Productions to produce John Madere's inspirational film and to make Rocco Up accessible to families of autistic children everywhere.
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