(Synopsis) This is the true story of Bethany Hamilton, a 13-year-old female surfer who lost her left arm to a 14-foot tiger shark. Instead of giving up surfing over the loss of her arm, Bethany was determined to get back on her board several weeks later and prove that she is truly a soul surfer.

(My Comments) Soul Surfer is an inspirational film for the whole family and an amazing story about a young girl who overcomes overwhelming obstacles and turns a traumatic tragedy into an achievement and triumph. The movie presents Bethany's family and their Christian faith that caries them through this life altering event. Bethany has become a positive role model for others that have a disability and have lost their faith. AnnaSophia Robb delivers a powerful and riveting performance as Bethany that is sure to win your hearts. Dennis Quaid and Helen Hunt's performances were very believable and real. You will actually begin to care for each of these characters, and the reason may be that you know that the story is based on real life events. You don't have to worry about the shark attack, because the scene was done quickly and not drawn out. Stay for the credits to see actual pictures. You will leave the movie feeling very good and upbeat. (Sony Pictures, Run Time 1:46, PG-13)(8/10)

This is the real life story of 13 year-old champion surfer Bethany Hamilton (AnnaSophia Robb) who loses her arm from a shark attack. This is definitely a feel-good inspirational story. It's about over coming the odds, and belief in God.

And it achieves that, but it doesn't make for a compelling drama. Helen Hunt and Dennis Quaid are veterans doing a competent job as her parents. Carrie Underwood is distracting as her Christian adviser. It would better to have an actual actor in the role. She seems uncomfortably cheerful. Anna Sophia Robb is a solid actor, but nothing dramatic. If there's any tension, it must come from the competition. However it's just not set up well enough. They needed to elevate a competitor as a lead character. But they chose not to pump up the drama.

I can't really claim to be familiar with the story of Bethany Hamilton prior to having seen this movie, and it was the synopsis here on IMDb that made me sit down and have a look at this movie. Normally I am not into surfing movies and that whole vibe around such movies, but I found this movie to be different, because it was based on an authentic story and also because it wasn't your average ride-the-water-boy-and-girl-romance.

The movie is carried by a strong story, and if based on true events and happenings, then Bethany Hamilton is really one tough fighter, both in body and spirit.

"Soul Surfer" was really helped along by some good performances. Most outstanding was AnnaSophia Robb (playing Bethany Hamilton) and Dennis Quaid (playing Tom Hamilton).

Having watched this movie, I must say that I think Bethany Hamilton's story is one of perseverance and fighting spirit, though I doubt that it is a story that will stay with me long after the movie has ended though. It is great to see people overcome the difficulties and obstructions in their lives, and this movie is a great testament to one such thing. I, personally, just don't see this movie as having enough contents for a second watching though, no disrespect meant.

I don't think the movie is meant to raise sympathy for Bethany Hamilton, but instead it is meant to show her story, show her strength and courage, and most importantly to prove that we can persevere and pull through even when odds are against us. And in that term, "Soul Surfer" struck the nail right on the head.