How entertaining? ★★☆☆☆
Thought provoking? ★★☆☆☆ 21 September 2011
This a movie review of SOUL SURFER. |
“Surfing isn't the most important thing in life. Love is. I've had the chance to embrace more people with one arm than I ever could with two.” Bethany Hamilton (AnnaSophia Robb)
That is the best line in the whole film, if only the rest had reached that level. Soul Surfer is a hugely inspiring true story, but is watered down by an awful script. The dialogue is of the perfunctory and pat kind. Such a shame. There are seven different writers involved in the story, and four different screenplay authors. It’s based on a book, why are there 11 writing credits?!
That is the best line in the whole film, if only the rest had reached that level. Soul Surfer is a hugely inspiring true story, but is watered down by an awful script. The dialogue is of the perfunctory and pat kind. Such a shame. There are seven different writers involved in the story, and four different screenplay authors. It’s based on a book, why are there 11 writing credits?!
|
|
An overcoming adversity parable and sports movie combined, showcasing a snapshot in the life of Bethany Hamilton – a Hawaiian teenager and surf enthusiast (dreaming of turning pro) in 2003 had her arm bitten off by a shark. An event as shocking as it is sad. The scene is handled without glamorizing; contrast 127 Hours, which is all build up. The filmmakers aren’t interested in the minutiae or dissection of the tragedy, rather who Hamilton was before, and what she turned into. She is portrayed as deeply impressive – firstly gentle and dedicated, and in the aftermath a revelation of courage and determination that cannot but provoke admiration.
The writing lets down the heroine. The beautiful setting and great cast (Dennis Quaid, Helen Hunt, Kevin Sorbo and Craig T. Nelson) prevent proceedings from hitting TV-movie-of-the-week territory. Just. The telling of the story is bland, with over-egged handwringing and cringey conversations. It is clear from the closing credits, where the real-life Bethany collects an award and thanks Jesus, that the she is very religious, and the family is shown to be so. How that overt tone sits with you depends on your beliefs. You might embrace the explicit, or prefer a subtler, more ambiguous look at faith. Whatever your leaning, faith in yourself is probably the strongest message.