Interesting movie, slightly weird, not exactly what I expected. But it's nice to watch it and Zac Efron looks beautiful, nice clothing style. It also shows sailboats and how people use them, which was quite interesting because I know nothing about sailboats. It also has romantic love story, which is not too bad. This movie also shows that people who look weird are actually normal people, just going through a certain period in life...

The story builds the background solid enough although takes quite long until we see the main concept settles in. And even after that, the main conflict doesn't even really begin until up about four tenths of the movie's duration. But then again, the movie did nicely in telling a mystery with a cooled down and less tense fashion. The flash backs and scream voices help greatly to hold the whole mystery aura altogether due to the overly dominant drama aspect of it. Also I like the fact that at the end the story is about God's second chance to a selected person. Zac Efron did nice in his role here. He can depict the whole character of a good brother very nicely, although I feel that he may have to work more on his facial expression usage. Amanda Crew balances the movie nicely with her role here, and so did Charlie Tahan.

The message of this story is universal despite any misgivings one might have about its delivery.The scenery is beautiful, the character's unique occupations and the insight about how we deal with loss are all there.There is no unnecessary acting, which by the way, is sterling throughout.Zac Efron theoretically shouldn't surprise us by being deep, thoughtful and spiritual as he does the same in '17 Again' with Matthew Perry...and he's gorgeous!A thoughtful and moving piece which is safe and informative for the whole family.

Charlie St. Cloud (Zac Efron) was once a promising young sailor, but now he's a grounds keeper at the local cemetery. Right before Sam's death, Charlie makes a deal with Sam to practice baseball meeting him at sunset cannons. Now he sees his spirit every day keeping the promise alive. Five years after the deadly car accident, he sees ghosts. An old schoolmate and competitor Tess Carroll (Amanda Crew) returns to town to compete in an important race as the youngest ever.Every time he makes a movie, Zac Efron is showing that he's a real actor. He's not just the simple pretty boy next door. The story is a light take on loss and grief. It feels like a Nicholas Sparks movie. There is a big twist in this movie. I do wish it could prepare it more, but it's good enough not to feel cheated.