Want personalized picks that fit your family?
Set preferences to see our top age-appropriate picks for your kids.
Soul Surfer
Common Sense says
- PG
- 2011
- 105 minutes
Parents say
Kids say
Searching for streaming and purchasing options ...
Common Sense is a nonprofit organization. Your purchase helps us remain independent and ad-free.
Get it now on
Searching for streaming and purchasing options ...
Common Sense is a nonprofit organization. Your purchase helps us remain independent and ad-free.
A lot or a little?
The parents' guide to what's in this movie.
What 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.
Stay up to date on new reviews.
User Reviews
- Parents say
- Kids say
relieved to say thumbs up!
Great entertainment for the whole family.
SURF SURF SURF ALLY SURF!!!!!!!
Inspiring
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?
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
- 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
Themes & Topics
Browse titles with similar subject matter.
For kids who love strong role models
Our editors recommend
Top advice and articles
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.