The life of Bethany Hamilton, a promising amateur Hawaiian surfer who overcame a crippling shark attack at age 13 to succeed on the pro circuit, would likely make for a compelling, inspirational cinematic experience even i... more »f it consisted of a voice-over recounting her story on a blank screen. The actual film may stay firmly within the standard safe sports underdog movie guidelines (complete with a sneering nemesis clad in a black wetsuit), but Hamilton's incredible strength and spirit still manage to shine through, aided by a terrifically appealing lead performance by AnnaSophia Robb. Beginning with a montage establishing Hamilton's lifetime love of the water, the film quickly focuses on the strong ties with both her family (including her parents, here played by Dennis Quaid and Helen Hunt) and community (personified in Carrie Underwood's youth minister) that aided in her recovery from tragedy. Director-cowriter Sean McNamara, a television veteran, gives the images an appealing, natural sheen, but unfortunately proves less successful at illustrating the depths of his main character. Throughout, Hamilton comes across as more of an idealized, selfless saint than a real person learning how to cope with such horrendous trauma, which is a particular shame, considering how good Robb is during the few moments when she's allowed to show frustration. She does her real-life inspiration proud, even if the film surrounding her sometimes feels overly scrubbed. --Andrew Wright« less
True story but the movie just did not cut the mustard!
Sharon C. from JEFFERSON CTY, MO Reviewed on 11/18/2012...
Will keep this in my collection. Such a great story of heartache within the entire family and how to rise above circumstances.
1 of 2 member(s) found this review helpful.
Juliana B. (hunger-thirst) from CHICAGO, IL Reviewed on 9/13/2012...
The film "Soul Surfer" has many, (tons) of things going for it. Women young and older are portrayed as stong, intellegent, real, caring, growing, and much more. I don't want to make this a long explaination. My favorite part of this film is one particular scene near the end, the music is great (play it loud) and mesmerizing, the visual effects are perfect. For a few moments there is a beauty I've never seen on my little tv before. It is inspired! It is worth having this film, see it and share it with others. There are over 200 reviews about this film on Amazon.com.
2 of 3 member(s) found this review helpful.
Sharon C. (Sierrastar) from BLYTHEWOOD, SC Reviewed on 7/25/2012...
This was a good movie. This is the sequel to the girl who lost her arm in a shark attack and how she got back on a surf board after she was still in the process of healing from her attack. It is worth the watch