Surf's Up

I will forever stand by this being one of the best films I’ve ever seen because of the fact that Cody is portrayed in such a relatable manner that you could feel his emotions through the screen, and you understand how he feels disconnected from his peers, and how he needs more from his surroundings and his life. Cody’s lack of a father figure is briefly mentioned at the beginning of the movie, and then later the writer’s strategically have him find a father figure in Z, while Z finds his strength to confront his past mistakes in Cody because of how he sees himself in him. The animation this movie was rather impressive for being released in 2007 because comparing the Barbie movies that were released back then Pixar made a huge step up from the bar that was set. The scenes with Cody and Z on the water and just being in the moment have such an impact on you as the watcher of the movie, that it doesn’t even matter if the animation is the best thing you’ve ever seen it’s the exposition part of the movies that actually get you the most into it. Which I feel is impressive to do as a Pixar movie because exposition in most peoples eyes especially in a movie tailored towards kids is not important whatsoever and is often boring or lacking good execution. I also feel like Cody’s struggles wanting to become a good surfer is a parallel to how in real life people who struggle trying to pursue art careers or music careers or even surfing are not taken seriously or supported where people shame and talk down to people who want to take their own path. Not to mention the soundtrack that was insane like the monologue over Drive by incubus was everything to me. They really knew what they were doing there. Especially the comedy aspect of the movie was great because they had it set up in a way where the characters were actually talking to you. I loved that because then you had an insight on their brain, and even even the bad guy was so goofy you just get into it. It’s a lighthearted movie until you get hit with the exposition that is beautiful and in the climax of the movie you get the relief of Chicken Joe winning the surf contest, but then you get the redemption of Z when he reveals himself and the bond created with him and Cody instead of Cody winning. It’s almost like a weight is lifted off his shoulders and lifted off the entire movie and you just feel this but then you also cry at the same time it’s exquisite. I can’t believe I didn’t grow up on this movie, I’ve been lost without it