Surf's Up (2007)
Synopsis:
Surf's Up is an animated film that follows Cody Maverick, a young penguin from Shiverpool, Antarctica, who dreams of becoming a professional surfer. Cody leaves his home to participate in the Big Z Memorial Surf Off on Pen Gu Island, hoping to prove himself and honor his surfing idol, Big Z. Along the way, Cody meets a colorful cast of characters, including the laid-back Chicken Joe and the spirited lifeguard Lani. As Cody prepares for the competition, he encounters challenges and unexpected friendships. The film is presented in a mockumentary style, offering a unique look at Cody's journey and the world of penguin surfing.
Where To Watch: Surf's Up
Parental Feedback
Surf's Up, released in 2007, is an animated comedy that blends sports and adventure genres, making it a delightful choice for kids. The film is generally well-received by parents, who appreciate its lighthearted tone and positive messages. While some parents express minor concerns about certain scenes, the overall sentiment is that Surf's Up is an enjoyable and family-friendly movie.
Why Kids Should Watch Surf's Up
Surf's Up is praised for its engaging storyline and positive messages.
- Promotes perseverance and following one's passion
- Features a strong character arc with Cody learning valuable life lessons
- Visually appealing with vibrant animation and exciting surfing scenes
- Encourages teamwork and friendship
Why Kids Shouldn’t Watch Surf's Up
Some parents note a few concerns regarding certain themes and scenes.
- Contains mild peril that might be intense for very young viewers
- Some competitive behavior might be seen as aggressive
- Occasional humor that may not be suitable for all children
Verdict: Parent Approved
Verdict: Parent Approved
Most parents agree this movie is a solid choice for kids because it offers positive messages, engaging characters, and exciting visuals.
What Parents Should Know About Surf's Up
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | Cody learns the importance of friendship and teamwork, which is demonstrated through his interactions with other characters. |
| Does this movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | The competition scenes may be intense, but they are balanced with humor and positive outcomes. |
| Does this movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | Yes, characters who act selfishly or recklessly face challenges and learn from their mistakes. |
| Does this movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | The film emphasizes teamwork and collaboration, especially during the surfing competition. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | The core message is about pursuing one's dreams while valuing friendship and integrity. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
Surf's Up is celebrated for its positive themes and engaging animation, making it a hit with both kids and parents. While there are minor concerns about competitive behavior, these are generally outweighed by the film's strong messages about perseverance and friendship. Parents can enhance the viewing experience by discussing the film's themes with their children. For those seeking similar content, movies like "Finding Nemo" or "Moana" might also be enjoyable options.
Official Surf's Up Trailer
The Core Values Learned From Surf's Up
Surf's Up's most common core values include Determination, Friendship, and Self-discovery. Kids will see determination in Cody's relentless pursuit of his dream to become a top surfer, even when faced with obstacles and setbacks. Friendship is highlighted through Cody's bond with Chicken Joe and Lani, who support and encourage him throughout his journey, showing kids the importance of having friends who believe in you. Self-discovery is a key theme as Cody learns more about himself and what truly matters beyond winning, teaching children that Understanding oneself is as important as achieving goals.
These values are woven into the story, offering children relatable examples of how to navigate challenges and grow.
Other Core Values Explored: Courage | Teamwork | Perseverance | Being yourself | Environmental awareness | Respect | Growth mindset | Trying new things | Encouraging others | Resilience | Leadership | Valuing hard work. | Creativity | Having fun
The 5 Biggest Lessons Learned From Surf's Up
Believing in Yourself: Kids learn the importance of self-confidence as Cody Maverick sets out to prove his worth as a surfer. Despite being underestimated by others, Cody's belief in his abilities drives him to pursue his dreams and face challenges head-on.
Following Your Passion: Children see how Cody's love for surfing motivates him to leave his comfort zone and chase his dreams. His passion for the sport is a guiding force that helps him overcome obstacles and stay focused on his goals.
Building Friendships: The movie shows kids the value of forming strong bonds with others. Cody's friendships with characters like Chicken Joe and Lani demonstrate how teamwork and support can lead to personal growth and success.
Learning from Mistakes: Cody's journey teaches children that making mistakes is a natural part of life. Through his experiences, kids learn that it's important to learn from errors and use them as opportunities for growth and improvement.
Earning Success through Hard Work: The film emphasizes to kids that achieving dreams requires dedication and effort. Cody's commitment to improving his surfing skills highlights the importance of perseverance and hard work in reaching one's goals.
Other Lessons Learned: Enjoying the Journey | Never Giving Up | Supporting Your Friends | Embracing Differences | Valuing Deep Connection | Practicing Empathy | Facing Fears Head-On
Why Kids Love Surf's Up
Surf's Up is a splashy adventure that takes kids on a wild ride through the world of penguin surfing. With talking animals like the hilarious Chicken Joe and the wise Big Z, the movie is filled with characters that bring laughter and excitement. The underwater worlds and racing competitions add a thrilling element, as Cody Maverick rides the waves in his quest to stand out and prove himself. Kids will love the silly jokes and cartoon-style chaos that keep the story lively and fun.
As Cody makes new friends and learns the importance of teamwork, the movie becomes a celebration of friendship and being the hero in your own story. The vibrant animation and energetic surf scenes create a dynamic atmosphere that captures the imagination. With its mix of humor, action, and heart, Surf's Up is an exhilarating experience that keeps kids entertained and cheering for Cody's big adventure.