Common Sense Media Review
By Tracy Moore
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
1990s hit with intense action, violence, and surfing.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Point Break (1991)
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 5 parent reviews
Based on 20 kid reviews
Kids say the film is an exhilarating action thriller filled with intense sequences, memorable characters, and a blend of adventure that includes surfing, skydiving, and bank robberies. Although it contains significant violence, strong language, and some nudity, many reviewers agree that it's an entertaining experience, best suited for mature teens despite its R rating.
- intense action
- strong language
- graphic violence
- mature audience
- memorable characters
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
In POINT BREAK, FBI agent Johnny Utah (Keanu Reeves) is tracking a group of violent bank robbers when he's drawn to a thrill-seeking bunch of surfers led by Bodhi (Patrick Swayze), who may or may not fit the bill. The friendships Johnny forms leave him enamored of surfing but confused about how to do his job due to the strange, newfound respect he has for the criminals he's tracking and their adventurous lifestyle.
Is It Any Good?
This is an intense, outrageous film that manages to blend a lot of action movies into one. Point Break features gorgeous surfing shots, high-stakes bank robbery scenes, violent shoot-outs, turf wars, and unlikely friendships that offer buddy-picture clichés on both sides of the law. It's Reeves at his best, playing the unassuming smart guy who comes off as naive and likable enough to infiltrate a group of surfers who teach him about the real meaning of life with a dose of cheesy California spirituality.
Older teens who are used to violent films might find this retro-amusing, and it raises interesting questions about doing the right thing when the criminal you're tracking becomes not only a source of admiration and respect but also a friend. That said, it's way too over the top in terms of violence, language, and general lawlessness to be a good fit for kids.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about surfing movies and how Point Break fits into the genre. What makes them so fascinating? Does this seem like an accurate portrayal of surfing culture? Why, or why not?
Was Johnny's decision at the film's end the right one? Why did he make that choice? Do you think ethical questions can be complex, or does doing the right thing seem clear cut to you?
Have you seen the 2015 remake of this movie? How does it compare? What do you think of remakes more widely? Do you think it's a good way to introduce new generations to beloved movies, or should the originals be left well alone?
Movie Details
- In theaters : December 14, 1991
- On DVD or streaming : February 1, 2005
- Cast : Keanu Reeves , Patrick Swayze , Lori Petty
- Director : Kathryn Bigelow
- Studio : Twentieth Century Fox
- Genre : Action/Adventure
- Topics : Adventures , Sports , Friendship , Travel
- Run time : 122 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : Rated R for violence, language and brief nudity
- Last updated : August 6, 2026
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