Common Sense Media Review
By S. Jhoanna Robledo , based on child development research. How do we rate?
age 10+
Earnest sports biopic tugs at heart despite clichés.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
Any Positive Content?
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Violence & Scariness
some
A shark attacks a young surfer. It happens quickly but ferociously, with lots of blood and some gore.
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Products & Purchases
very little
Brand names and logos for surfing sponsors, including Rip Curl and Red Bull. Spam.
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Language
very little
"Jerk" and "oh my God."
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Sex, Romance & Nudity
very little
Flirting, girls in bikinis, shirtless males.
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Positive Role Models
a lot
Bethany is a very positive role model, choosing to respond to enormous loss and tragedy with grace and kindness both for herself and others. Instead of dwelling on what she doesn't have, she focuses on what to give to others.
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Positive Messages
a lot
The movie's strongly positive message is that you can get over the worst of tragedies with perspective, self-determination, and the support of friends and family.
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Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that this inspiring true story about a promising young surfer who was attacked by a shark could give tween and teen viewers lots to think about, from trying to figure out their purpose in life (even at a young age) to trying to come to terms with adversity. With the exception of the attack itself -- which, although quick, unfolds in a gory, violent manner -- the movie is squeaky-clean, with no iffy language, sex, or alcohol or drug content. And the main character is an extremely positive role model, responding to tragedy with grace and kindness instead of bitterness. To stay in the loop on more movies like this, you can sign up for weekly Family Movie Night emails.
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Soul Surfer
Parent and Kid Reviews
See all
- Parents say (55)
- Kids say (190)
age 9+
Based on 55 parent reviews
AWWmom Adult
May 18, 2024
age 10+
Our favorite family movie
This is one of our favorite family movies. It has such a positive message and the fact that it’s all true makes it even better. Personally I think this movie is underrated.
Ellen R. Parent of 9-year-old
February 1, 2024
age 9+
Excellent tween movie!
Our 9 year old daughter loved this movie, and I did too! It is impossible to find a movie for tweens that does not have sex, cursing, or girls who speak unkindly. The only caution I give is that the shark attack scene is very intense and they do not hold back on showing blood, her going into shock, her friend throwing up, her rescue, etc. so if your child is sensitive to these things, id suggest fast forwarding.
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See all 55 parent reviews
What's the Story?
Based on true-life events, SOUL SURFER chronicles the life of Bethany Hamilton (AnnaSophia Robb) in the weeks leading up to the shark attack that resulted in the loss of one of her arms -- and the months of healing that followed. Her parents (Dennis Quaid and Helen Hunt) struggle to keep her strong even as they learn how to process the overwhelming feelings. Bethany ultimately has two challenges to face: getting back on the board with confidence and joy and coming to peace within herself over the tragedy.
Is It Any Good?
Our review:
Parents say (55):
Kids say (190):
To be honest, SOUL SURFER gets off to an iffy start, full of cheesy shots of beachy fun in the sun. The characters, especially Bethany's parents, seem one-dimensional and unrealistically saintly; they just don't seem real. But the minute tragedy strikes -- and does it ever -- the movie finds its footing. It roots its way into your conscience with its determined (but not pushy) message about digging into your soul -- could that be the reason for the title? -- for the wherewithal to continue.
None of the actors are all that complex here, except perhaps for Hunt in one scene of utter anguish. Even Robb, who plays Bethany, feels a bit hollow. Still, the movie works. First, the camera angles showcase the waves and the surfers who ride them at their glorious best. Credit also goes to Soul Surfer's unabashed earnestness: Yes, it's a message movie, but the message burrows deep enough under your skin to make the movie, given its utter conventionality, unexpectedly stirring. Bring tissues.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the movie's messages about facing life's challenges. Do you think you'd be able to respond to a life-changing tragedy the way the main character does? How do you think she manages it?
What does Bethany learn from her experience, and what does she teach others?
The movie is based on a true story. Do you think that means everything happened exactly the way it's shown here? Why might filmmakers change some facts while making a movie?
Movie Details
- In theaters: April 8, 2011
- On DVD or streaming: August 2, 2011
- Cast: AnnaSophia Robb, Dennis Quaid, Helen Hunt
- Director: Sean McNamara
- Inclusion Information: Female actors
- Studio: Columbia Tristar
- Genre: Drama
- Topics: Sports and Martial Arts, Great Girl Role Models
- Run time: 105 minutes
- MPAA rating: PG
- MPAA explanation: an intense accident sequence and some thematic material
- Last updated: June 17, 2024
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.
Soul Surfer
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