Soul Surfer - Preview Review

Who's in it?

AnnaSophia Robb, Helen Hunt, Dennis Quaid, Carrie Underwood

What's it about? 

Soul Surfer recounts the true story of surfer Bethany Hamilton who survived a horrific shark attack, losing her left arm at the age of 13. She refuses to accept defeat or to quit her beloved surfing on her native Hawaiian island. It’s a story of perseverance, faith, and family, capturing a determined teenage girl as she faces the biggest challenge of her life.

Any Good?

Although aimed at the teenage girlie audience, I really enjoyed this. Had I not realised it was a true story, though, I might have felt different. The acting was pretty wooden and the context a little Jesussy but it worked.

The first 20 minutes were taken up by flinching every time she went into the water, knowing Jaws was going to chow down any minute - it seemed like unintentional tension. The actual scene though was brilliantly done. Although we only got a glimpse of the shark, the actors portrayal of the immediate aftermath was honestly frightening. 

The film goes on to show Bethany's recovery and eagerness to get back in the water doing what she loves best, championship surfing. Carrie Underwood's character, although based on Bethenny's actual Christian Minister Sarah Hill was trite and completely miscast, though necessary for the religious underpinning.

Bethany doing her thang!

While my youngest could easily make a better CGI shark, the camera work used to remove AnnaSophia's arm was excellent & very believable. Bethany herself provided the stunts for the movie and the footage is nothing short of stunning.

Shot on location on Kauai this film has reminded me once more, after 50 First Dates & Series 1 finale of Modern Family just how breath taking Hawaii truly is.

With a surprisingly good soundtrack and an inherently uplifting and inspirational message Soul Surfer is worth a look. Stick around for the actual footage as the credits roll too.