Film Reviews

Soul Surfer

• Rating:
• Director: Sean McNamara
• Starring: Annasophia Robb
• Details: USA / 106 mins (12A)

Based on an inspiring true story, the execution in this (very) Disney production may be a little 'gee shucks' for even the moderate cynic out there, but it's hard to deny the core message that drives the film. Granted, that could also be because said core message is rammed down your throat courtesy of some heavy-handed direction.
AnnaSophia Robb is all grown up from the kid who appeared in the likes of Race to Witch Mountain and Bridge to Terabithia, and plays Bethany Hamilton, an accomplished surfer who is the victim of a horrific shark attack. Said attack leaves her bereft of an arm, but Bethany doesn't let that deter her from the sport she loves, and continues to not just compete professionally, but win.
Judging by this film, if you asked Hamilton what got her through her ordeal, and back on the board, she'd give you a one word answer - faith. Coming off as extremely religious, when said faith is used to such stirringly positive effect it's hard to argue with it. That said, for anyone who doesn't buy into the American away of "Praise Jesus" the film may grate after a while.
That said, a truthful cinematic interpretation of Hamilton's life should really be the goal, and director McNamara surrounds a suitably athletic looking Robb with some solid supporting names to do just that. Quaid and Hunt may no longer be the household names they were in the 90s, but both are solid and do the best they can with often cheesey material. Robb is great as Bethany, and should see her star rise significantly after release.
An inspiring story told in a conventional way; older audience members may smell the cheese, but younger cinema goers should find a lot to enjoy.

Review by Mike Sheridan