Movie: Surf’s Up! ~ It’s For Older Kids

Typically I do not enjoy anything animated, whether it be movies or cartoons. When you have a child you learn to appreciate the value in this area of entertainment.

My first favorite movie was Nemo. What a good story line with great animation and characters. The second was CARS and then Happy Feet (because the music was just too groovy not to like).

Penguins must be the “in” thing. They’ve made appearances in Madagascar, took home awards for Marching with Penguins and then danced a jig in Happy Feet. It might be time to move on to a new animal.

Now on that list is “Surf’s Up!” It’s rate PG and it does contain some adult humor, but no foul language.

There are many words most kids have already learned such as: butt, crap and shut up. My son may know them, but I try to discourage him from using them. Seeing them in a funny movie gives him the wrong impression.

Cody, the main character, has his life followed by a camera crew who are examining his childhood and how he got involved in surfing. His father died when he was young (he was eaten by a shark) and his mother isn’t very involved (or interested) in his hobby.

He spends a great portion of the movie seeking recognition from his family and friends that he is somebody. Cody’s spirit is contagious as sets out to prove he may not be the biggest or most talented surfing penguin, but he has the most heart. He ends up meeting his idol surfer, Big Z.

His sidekick, Chicken Joe, is the only non-penguin in the movie. What a combo! I believe that Chicken Joe stole the show and will definitely leave you cracking up!

Tank, the surfing champion, has an unusual relationship with his surfing trophies. At one point his mother asks, “Are you polishing your trophies again?” The children in the theater did not laugh, but the adults did. In another scene a penguin’s genitals are “blurred out.”

There are several good story lines to take away and talk with your child about. My recommendation is to only allow older children to view this movie. I’ve learned that PG movies aren’t necessarily appropriate for my almost 5 year old, even if he doesn’t get the humor.

I also found a good website, Common Sense Media, that will give you details of concerning scenes help you make your own viewing decision.