A Bold Experiment in Surf Cinema

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MOVIE REVIEW
The Greatest Surf Movie in the Universe
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Genre: Comedy, Animated, Surfing
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 22m
Director(s): Vaughan Blakey, Nick Pollet
Writer(s): Nick Pollet
Cast: Mick Fanning, Luke Hemsworth, Craig Anderson, Mason Ho, Griffin Colapinto, Jack Freestone, Matt Wilkinson, Kelly Slater
Where To Watch: coming to super rad theaters August 16, 2024, find the showing nearest you here: www.bluefoxentertainment.com

RAVING REVIEW: Let me get this out of the way first; I couldn’t have imagined a world where I would enjoy this as much as I did (sober.) THE GREATEST SURF MOVIE IN THE UNIVERSE launches viewers into a future where a revolutionary vaccine has unexpectedly obliterated all memory of surfing, creating a surreal scenario where a cherished subculture suddenly vanishes. This unique blend of stop-motion animation and live-action narration forms a riveting narrative that engages surf fans and captures the imagination of anyone fascinated by the dramatic disappearance of cultural touchstones. Yeah, you read that all right, and while this won’t be winning any Oscars, it was still an enjoyable ride from start to finish!

At the heart of the story is Dr. Jonathan Figg (Vaughan Blakey,) a brilliant yet impulsive scientist whose creation saves humanity from a looming threat but, paradoxically, erases the vibrant world of surfing. As legendary surfers meander through a life stripped of wave-riding memories, the divine surf deity Huey (Ronnie Blakely) takes on a mission to reignite their lost passion and restore surfing's legacy.

Luke Hemsworth’s vocal contributions add a fun twist to the narrative, though the film’s more whimsical elements sometimes undercut his efforts. The funfilled, stop-motion visuals offer a feast for the eyes but occasionally struggle to fully convey the emotional stakes of the surfers' quest, leaving viewers yearning for a deeper connection to their journey. We’ve seen this type of puppetry before, and this may not be the best version, but it was still fun to follow along with!

As the plot delves into the altered lives of renowned surfers like Mick Fanning and Mason Ho, their authentic voices bring a genuine feel to the characters. The script's unique humor, which takes cues from psychedelic and absurdist influences, occasionally loses an opportunity to critically examine the commercialization and cultural dilution of surfing.

Despite its lighthearted approach, THE GREATEST SURF MOVIE IN THE UNIVERSE aspires to be a thought-provoking piece on cultural preservation and the impact of memory loss. Somehow, the over-the-top clichéd humor and chaotic visuals manage not to overshadow its deeper thematic ambitions, leaving its potential only partially realized.

Directed by Nick Pollet and Vaughan Blakey, the film showcases meticulous care in its animation and a daring fusion of styles. This film will particularly resonate with viewers drawn to unconventional and experimental storytelling. It may be an intriguing but perplexing viewing experience for those less inclined toward niche films. As the story wraps up, it prompts reflection on the value and challenges of resurrecting lost cultural phenomena, questioning whether the essence of such endeavors can be reclaimed or if some aspects of culture are destined to fade.

THE GREATEST SURF MOVIE IN THE UNIVERSE is an audacious exploration into what it means to retrieve forgotten passions and the resilience of cultural identity against the relentless currents of change. It's a commendable narrative experiment that challenges viewers to consider the fragility and tenacity of cultural memory in a rapidly evolving world.

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[photo courtesy of BLUE FOX ENTERTAINMENT]

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