Surfer

Surfer is a 2018 film that marries the genres of drama and adventure, with a dash of the supernatural, providing a unique and captivating cinematic experience for its audience. This insightful and enigmatic film will appeal to film lovers who have a preference for stories that provoke thought and discussion, all against the backdrop of the thrilling world of surfing.

The film pivots around the life of a young boy, thirteen-year-old Neil, astutely played by Sage Burke in a performance that is certain to tug at the heartstrings of viewers. Neil leads a rather unusual and solitary life due to his strange ailment – an unidentified and potentially lethal sickness that primarily targets the respiratory system. This condition causes him to be constantly under the watchful and protective care of his overbearing father, the entrepreneur, Peter, an intriguing role portrayed by Douglas Burke.

The opening of the film skillfully sets the tone, displaying a father and son's relationship that runs the gamut from tension-filled disagreements to heartwarming moments of camaraderie. For Peter, every interaction is a race against the clock, amplifying his love and concern for his son and his unending search for a cure. His insurmountable guilt from past mistakes compounds his worry, adding an extra layer of complexity to his character.

Enter Jack, an effortless surfer played effortlessly by Gerald James who offers a stark contrast to Peter’s obsessive, neurotic tendencies. Jack, in his indomitable spirit and simple philosophy of life, engages Neil's attention and evokes a sense of curiosity about the free-spirited lifestyle of surfing, eventually inspiring him to take the plunge, quite literally.

The film becomes a trail of consuming passions as Neil develops an intense fondness for the adrenaline-soaked world of surfing, igniting a fierce conflict between father and son. Peter's vivid dreams, depicting Neil’s triumphs and trials in the domain of surfing, emerge as the mystical element of the plot, baring a poignant symbolism to the gruff exterior of the plot.

The sun-soaked scenes at the beach, replete with the playful music of the waves, offer a unique aesthetic for the viewers. While the visually stunning cinematography captures the dancing waves in all their glory, it also provides a symbolic image of the tumultuous emotions brewing among the characters.

Surfer carefully tiptoes the line between dream and reality, leaving viewers in a state of wonder, as it presents an array of questions about life, passion and the supernatural. It sketches its characters with depth, ensuring that the viewers can witness their struggles and relate to their victories.

However, underneath all the palpable tensions and arguments, this film is first and foremost a story about parent-child relationships, their variations and nuances. On one hand, it reiterates a parent’s worry and unending love for their child, while on the other hand, it manifests a child’s innate need for freedom and choice.

The film is directed by Douglas Burke who brings a fresh narrative angle on the extreme sport world. His direction fleshes out the unusual premise of the film, giving it a real-life touch. The music of the film, which blends with the mesmerizing visuals, sets the tone of the film perfectly, alternating between the cheerful, exciting surfing scenes and the intense interactions of the main characters.

Overall, Surfer stands out as an original film that shines a spotlight on the world of surfing and the challenges it brings along, embodying the thrill and passion for the sport at the heart of its narrative. Moreover, it offers a compelling exploration of the deep bonds of familial love and the inherent struggle between safeguarding and liberating, that often exist side by side in such relationships.

Surfer, with its thoughtful narrative, compelling performances, and arresting visuals, is a film that isn’t afraid to explore the unknown and delve into the depths of human relationships and dreams. It may particularly appeal to those who enjoy thought-provoking cinema or have an interest in the world of surfing. Through its portrayal of its strong, headstrong characters and their conflicts, Surfer encourages viewers to ride the waves of life, no matter how challenging or unpredictable they might be.