Soul Surfer - 9 stars out of 10

Soul Surfer - 9 stars out of 10

"Soul Surfer" will have you emotionally on edge from start to finish.  The film is an example of excellent pacing.  The writers develop the characters and create the warm family connection, they show the tragedy, they deal with the recovery, and then they show the perseverence.  The film is succinct while cultivating the important emotional content to create several "cry moments."  If you don't feel as if you might cry at any moment, you do not possess a soul.  AnnaSophia Robb is wonderful in the role of Bethany Hamilton, emotionally reserved throughout the tragedy but proving herself as a true actress when she breaks down in her scene with Carrie Underwood.  In real life, the Christian aspect was important as Hamilton persevered through her tragedy, but the writers managed to give it a significant presence without shoving it down your throat.  It was nice to see some big-name actors jumping on board to tell this inspirational story, like Helen Hunt and Dennis Quaid as the parents who became a crutch and encouragement to the main character.  The cinematography is top notch through the surf scenes and gorgeous Hawaiian atmosphere.  I highly recommend this clean but inspirational story of hope about a girl who learned to embrace more people with one arm than she ever could have with two.