Review of Point Break (2015) by Beau D — 30 Sep 2012

Somewhat of an action classic by today's standards, Point Break is an iconoclastic film that features two high billing actors at the peak of their fame, indulging us in a cat and mouse thriller. Keanu Reeves, a bankable star at the time, took a huge risk in taking on a role that requires serious stamina and delves deep into the psyche of an FBI agent chasing after a deranged set of bank robbers.

The inter-personal relationships between the two of leads is the best aspect of the film, as Johnny Utah goes in undercover to unearth the plausible identity of a group of professional bank robbers. The caste of crazies are all surfers, led by the irreprehensible and handsome Patrick Swayze.

He portrays a mellow leader simply waiting for the big kahuna wave to hit, financing it with his bank sprees. The film is famous for its action packed bank robbery scenes, and the relationship between Utah (Reeves) and Bodhi (Swayze).

Other important elements to the story include a love story and partner relationship, and also show scenes of the inner workings of the FBI, plagued with scenes that include a still considered sane Gary Busey.

The film works for many reasons; specifically that it contains a lot of magic realism, while also being grounded in police procedure, drug busts, which are shown occasionally between shots of babes on the beach.

The gang he infiltrates are speed freaks, which lends to too many interesting shots of surfing, skydiving, and general thievery. Some iconic scenes include those of the bank robberies and essentially the chase scene near the end.

It starts very strong and ends as poignantly and interesting as it began. It only suffers from its annoying seriousness in the face of its ridiculous premise. It's a film you need to wade into. A great action film, with an interesting portrayal from Reeves, though it's one clouded in vast cinematography and mystic philosophies.

Overall a generally habit forming kind of film.