Soul Surfer

The true story of teen surfer Bethany Hamilton, who lost her arm in a shark attack and courageously overcame all odds to become a champion again, through her sheer determination and unwavering faith.

Critics find the true story inspiring but the film formulaic and cheesy, with a sincere faith-driven message that many reviewers found heavy-handed.

• the protagonist keeps her faith through hospital recovery and returns to the water guided by her Christian belief
• the plot follows a teen surfer relearning surfing with one arm to compete again
• the film is openly intended as inspirational and its message is foregrounded throughout

• Rudyshared inspirational sports comeback drama with faith-driven perseverance after physical loss
• Million Dollar Babyshared true-story athletic resilience and family support through injury
• Cool Runningsshared wholesome uplifting sports biography tone centered on a young athlete overcoming adversity

Director

Sean McNamara

Release Date

2011-04-08

Runtime

112 min

Rating

7.0 / 10 (1289)

What is Soul Surfer about?

A teenage surfer loses her arm to a shark attack and must relearn how to paddle, stand, and surf with the faith and support of her family and friends.

What is Soul Surfer like to watch?

Ember's analysis rates the pacing of Soul Surfer as measured, its intensity as moderate and its storytelling as simple.

Is Soul Surfer violent?

Only mildly. Ember rates the violence in Soul Surfer as mild.

What did critics think of Soul Surfer?

Critics find the true story inspiring but the film formulaic and cheesy, with a sincere faith-driven message that many reviewers found heavy-handed.

Which films are like Soul Surfer?

Films with a similar feel include Rudy, Million Dollar Baby, and Cool Runnings.

How long is Soul Surfer?

Soul Surfer runs 112 minutes.

Where can I watch Soul Surfer?

In United States, Soul Surfer streams on Netflix, Netflix Standard with Ads.