Review of Soul Surfer (2011) by Olivia K — 11 Feb 2018

Soul Surfer is based off the true story of Bethany Hamilton, a young, up-and-coming surfer who loses her arm when she is attacked by a shark. While the videography is breathtaking, the exposition feels a little too similar to a fairy tale to be taken seriously, making the shark attack overly anticipated and melodramatic.

Immediately after the attack, however, Bethany is rushed to the ER in a heart-pounding race for survival. The conflict is fast-paced but captures the raw emotion of those closest to the main character.

Throughout the movie, Bethany's friends and family do their best to support her, but their dialogue is predictable and cliche at times. That is, except for the parents. Bethany's parents are dumbfounded as to how to guide Bethany through such a tragic accident.

Thier conversations bring forth the real hurt that goes on in limbo land when you don't know how to respond. Made to be an inspiring Christian film, I think the movie does a great job tackling the "Why suffering?" question but leaves the viewer feeling like the answer is too good to be true.