Surfer, Dude

I generally like movies about surfing - documentaries, fiction and even animated flicks. While this movie started out fine, by the end, I really had no idea why the movie was made. Nothing really happens. Nothing. Furthermore, this movie is actually only 75 minutes long (without the credits)! That's pretty short, but it fits since there isn't really any story.

I did like the beginning though - there are cool surfing shots, lots of specialized surfer lingo, and a cool introduction to McConaughey's character as a legendary surfer. And that was not all, the beginning also gives us an exotic high-tech firm w/3D virtual technology, a surfer reality show and even a flashy/upscale topless beach party (it was very well done!).

However, in terms of where all these elements go, the movie tanks. McConaughey's character walks around confused and dejected because there's no surf ... all while he's continually assaulted by the high tech firm that's pressuring him to sign a contract.

As a movie, it's pretty terrible. However, I must say that I still enjoyed a lot of the above elements for their fun-spirited nature. For the general viewer though, there's definitely no point in seeing this movie.

I watch quite a few movie and from my review record I can pretty much watch any movie. My first and foremost priority is; does the movie entertain me? For this movie, check! Then my second priority is this movie original? For this movie half a check. And finally my third priority is, does this movie challenge my mind? For this movie, no not even close.

This movie is pure entertainment. Though I have to say that Matthew McConaughey did a really good job. While people may say, "oh look he is playing a stoner and laid back person. That is a no-brainer." Actually not really, since a laid back person does not get uptight about anything, nothing gets them going.

What surprised me in the movie is how well Matthew played the character. You saw it when he was challenged to a fight, and refused, or when he was insulted, or his words twisted. He played his character and I was surprised at how well he did it.

So while it is not that original, though there are hints, it is very very entertaining. I found much of the critique of this movie completely misplaced...

I downloaded this movie recently as part of an attempt to chart Matthew McConaughey's movie career. The IMDb rating definitely made me think twice but since the title suggested harmless banter at worst, I switched it on in the background. Well, I was hooked within the first 15 mins. This movie not bad at all. In fact, I would highly recommend it to anyone who has 2 hours to kill.

McConaughey's performance as Steve Addington, his character build up (3rd party stories around his background etc.), a great lineup of supporting actors and a plot that ends positively. The movie delivers on all counts that make up your average feel good Fri nighter. This one goes beyond in a lot of aspects.

I'm rating this movie a 10 till the score recovers to 6.5.

Of course it is hilarious to make a surfing-movie about a wave-less period, Fantastic!

I find it hard to understand others gave this movie so low points, Unlike most comedies, this movie really is funny to see!(if you share my taste)

The story was quite alright, but not the reason why this movie is so good, The humor is in the characters and the atmosphere of the movie. Really hilarious without the stupidity-factor of most humor movies. There is a really nice flow over the whole movie!

Especially Woody Harrelson showed really great acting! And always nice to see Willy Nelson. Also nice music from Xavier Rudd!

If you have the same taste as me you will enjoy this movie for sure!

Miha

This movie certainly isn't something to watch when you are looking for an action flick. Or anything with a real plot. Its more a sort of stoner wish movie about how most people are caught up in lives they don't want to live. The main character, Addington, is sort of the antithesis of these people - a person who just isn't interesting in doing what he doesn't want to do, and instead just lives to surf and chill (and smoke weed, of course).

As such, its a rather prettily shot movie with lots of weed smoking and hot girls, and laid back characters confronted with modern success and the trappings that come with it. The soundtrack is also great and well timed.

I found it surprisingly entertaining, but you'd have to be in the right mood to watch it and feel you got your money worth like I did.