This movie is heavy on the cheese and has a very Disney feel to it yet despite that I still really enjoyed it. Excellent cast in Helen Hunt & Dennis Quaid which probably helped and several surprising cameos (Craig T. Nelson, Carrie Underwood) along with a nice virtual vacation as it takes place exclusively in Hawaii.Soul Surfer is the real life story of Bethany Hamilton, a teen surfer who lost her arm in a shark attack and through faith and the support of her parents courageously overcame the odds to become a champion surfer again.The whole shark attack scene could have been a bit more... well just more. Dramatized I guess, a lost opportunity there but I guess they were trying to keep things family friendly. The ensuing chaos as they (including Kevin Sorbo) try to get her back onto land and to the hospital in the back of a pick-up is well done though. We then follow Bethany as she adjusts to her new life and attempts a comeback at championship surfing.I understand the family is quite religious in real life so I think they probably toned down that aspect here, still a heavy Christian vibe. Not that there's anything wrong with that. 08.13

There may be a few very minor spoilers here, but nothing that wouldn't be seen in reading basic info about the film.This is one of my favorite films, it's very inspirational and emotional. The fact that it's a true story (overall at least) is what makes it so special. Ironically, I think that my favorite part is the ending credits when it shows videos of the real Bethany Hamilton and things that she has done since the attack. It's truly amazing that she has become a champion surfer even though she only has one arm, it hardly seems possible.As a Christian, there are a couple parts that I consider to be inappropriate, mainly the photo shoot. But most of the film is fully acceptable. I was worried that it would be like the movie "The Blind Side" which has a lot of bad language and inappropriate stuff. But thankfully that's not really the case. The fact that Bethany Hamilton and her family are Christians in real life is probably the main reason why. It's interesting that they insisted on having a couple Bible verses.The shark attack, and the rescue are rather intense, so if you're sensitive to things like this, you may want to skip this part. I don't mind it, I probably shouldn't call it exiting, since it was a very tragic event, but I do enjoy watching it. The rest of the film is mostly gentle.

A subtle real life based movie that inspires and asks to re-evaluate one's perspectives in life . A must watch for soul that loves to surf the tides of life. Anna Sophia Robb has done complete justice in portraying the feelings, emotions and resolution of amazing Bethany Hamilton.The movie also speaks volumes about the role of family and their unwavering support , care , faith and believe in ensuring that dreams of any family member do see the light of the day. With songs like set the world on fire , its your life and many more the movie replenishes one's soul to take on life head on.

This was one of the worst movies i have ever seen (i know that's a stretch) It was religious propaganda through and through. My biggest problem was the bad story telling and lack of any good performances. While the actual story of this girl is an interesting one the movie was not. it lacked realism (it was one of the worst shark attack effects i have ever seen. I watched this movie as part of a leadership class and by the end i wish i had of stayed home sick instead. This movie reminded me a lot of Patch Adams. everything was super happy and perfect. Every character felt so fake. Let me not forget Kevin Sorbo whom i have always loathed. This movie is not even so bad it's funny status. There is no redeeming qualities on display in this dreadful cinematic dive bomb. all and all bad movie, 1 star.