Soul Surfer - A Movie Review

No matter what happens in life, just ride the waves, writing your own pathway.

Soul Surfer is a 2011 film based on the true events of Bethany Hamilton. A young professional surfer is attacked by a shark. Losing her arm, Bethany is persistent to get back in the water and compete in surfing championships.

Nine years ago when I saw Soul Surfer in theaters I was moved to tears and incredibly inspired by Bethany Hamilton’s brave journey. For anyone who is looking for a sign of hope, Soul Surfer is a beautiful film that teaches us that no matter what happens, we can always keep moving forward.

AnnaSophia Robb is outstanding in her portrayal as Bethany Hamilton. She captured Hamilton’s energetic spirit, and trained to surf for the film. Robb carried out an incredible story of a 13-year-old young girl who was hit by a tragic event that never stopped her. Ever since, I have always been inspired by Hamilton for making a film, not just for herself, but for those who are struggling in similar situations.

Holly Hunter and Dennis Quaid are terrific as Bethany’s parents. I have always enjoyed Hunter as an actress because she plays strong-willed women. Here, it is a very different story where Bethany’s parents have to learn how to deal with this new situation, without treating Bethany differently. Movies, where parents learn from their children, are essential.

Other acting credits include Kevin Sorbo, Ross Thomas, Lorraine Nicholson, Jeremy Sumpter, Sonya Balmores, Craig T. Nelson and the first film for the singer, Carrie Underwood. I am very impressed with how well each actor studies their real-life component to make a believable performance. The emotion is so captivating.

One subplot that I was not expected was the rivalry between Bethany Hamilton and her surfing opponent, Malina (Balmores). Years later after watching this movie again, Bethany’s gratitude to Malina for treating her no differently than before the accident is a strong scene. No matter what, people challenging one another in contests will always look out for one another.

Bethany Hamilton and her family had a large part in the making of this film. In some scenes, Hamilton was a stunt double for Robb when surfing the large waves! I am so glad that she worked very closely on this movie to bring out the story that she wanted audiences to see because, in all truth, Hollywood would have made changes.

Criticism for this film was mixed believing that Hollywood took over too much of the real story. I would have to agree after reading comments from the Hamilton family about one particular crucial scene to the film. The shark attack scene was an all-around anxiety-ridden scene with everyone running around trying to get the wounded Hamilton to the hospital. Hamilton actually said to tone down the scene because in actuality everyone was calm!

I think that Sean McNamara did a great job with Soul Surfer. However, I feel like some scenes were drawn out. He ended up repeating some sequences, having already gotten the important message across. Otherwise, McNamara worked closely with the actors to bring to life an inspirational story on an incredible woman.

The cinematography was outstanding, capturing beautiful shots of the ocean, and magnificent close-ups of waves. As someone who enjoyed being in the water all the time as a kid, Soul Surfer took me back to those fun memories. Even the technique for creating the illusion of Bethany’s missing limb was realistic.

Bethany Hamilton’s determination continues to inspire people around the world. Soul Surfer is an adventure. I would recommend the film to anybody, especially those who are in need of a sign.