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Johnny Kapahala: Back on Board (G, 2007)

common sense media says

Tsunami sequel fun, but doesn't make waves.

parents & educators say
See all 6 reviews | Review it

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that one of the main characters in this made-for-TV movie is a tween who's rude to adults and his teen mentor throughout most of the story -- but he eventually shapes up and comes to respect them. Peer pressure is a dominant theme, with a group of teens learning to see through their leader's negative influence and following their own instincts. Though young viewers may not catch all the major plot points, they'll no doubt enjoy the action-packed dirt mountain boarding scenes.

Positive messages: A mentor helps a defiant tween conquer peer pressure and value strong family bonds. Teens learn to overcome the negative influence of their deceitful gang leader.
Violence & scariness: Dirt boarding scenes feature a few spills, including one that results in a fractured arm.
Sexy stuff: There's a developing crush between two teen characters, but it doesn't generate any physical contact. Teen boys occasionally send suggestive looks girls' ways.
Language: Nothing iffy, but lots of extreme-sport slang like "sic" and "gnarly."
Consumerism: Not applicable.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on Johnny Kapahala: Back on Board

What to talk about

Talk to your kids

Families can talk about how the media influences people's taste in hobbies and entertainment. Tweens: Had you ever heard of dirt mountain boarding before this movie? What do you think of it? After seeing it, would you want to try it out? What other activities have you wanted to try because you saw them in TV shows or movies? Families can also discuss peer pressure. Have you ever felt negative pressure from a friend? How did you handle it? Do you think this movie's scenario is plausible, or did the characters' problems get solved too easily?

What's the story?

What's the story?

In this sequel, 17-year-old Johnny (Brandon Baker) heads to his native Hawaii for his surfing legend grandfather's wedding, and to reunite with best buddy Sam (Lil' J), who now lives in the islands. As a favor to his grandpa (Cary-Hiroyuki Tagama), Johnny keeps an eye on rebellious Chris (Jake T. Austin), the 12-year old son of grandpa's fiance. But Chris wants nothing to do with anyone in his new family, so Johnny takes up Chris' extreme sport -- dirt mountain boarding. But Johnny's camaraderie with the dirt boarding gang -- especially cute blonde Val (Rose McIver), whom Chris adores -- drives the troubled tween to take drastic measures to prove himself, and Johnny must find a way to reach out to him before his actions hurt someone else.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 

Back on Board lacks some of the spark that made its predecessor such a fan favorite, but it still blends a decent script with strong performances and positive messages about being true to yourself and thoughtful about your choice in friends. Top that off with thrilling scenes of the latest extreme sport, and families will likely find a lot to like.

Movie themes & details

Movie Details
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
Director: Eric Bross
Cast: Brandon Baker, Cary-Hiroyuki Tagama, Jake T. Austin
Genre: Drama
Run time: 90 minutes
Theatrical release: June 7, 2007
DVD release: October 9, 2007
MPAA Rating: G
This review was written by Emily Ashby
 
 

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Most useful reviews by all members

jkboblover
teen, 18 years old
 
I loved it!
THIS MOVIE IS SOOOOOOOOO AWESOME! JAKE T. AUSTIN IS SO CUTE. I HOPE I CAN BUY THE DVD AND WATCH IT ON DISNEY CHANNEL.
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helped me decide (10) | had useful details (9) | read my mind (11)
silviasuperstar101
adult
 
LOVED IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
omg, I loved this movie, at first I thought it was going to be bad but it was awesome specially the part with Jared in it he is sooooooooooo hot
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sizzler
kid, 13 years old
 
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helped me decide (9) | had useful details (9) | read my mind (11)
melissaduarte12
teen, 15 years old
 
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room mom
adult
 
My 7 year old loved it!
I liked this movie we had seen the original and the kids watched this one. My five year old daughter lost interest, but my son loved it. I recommend it.
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Halo 117
teen, 17 years old
 
Its ok
This is an ok kids movie, but I liked it better than the first one.
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