Surf’s Up: A Penguin’s Tale of Waves and Dreams
This animated comedy dives into the world of competitive penguin surfing, embracing all the classic tropes of a sports movie. We’ve got the arrogant favorites, the aging champion riding his last wave, and of course, the underdog – a young, shaggy penguin clutching his board, ready to prove himself. A dedicated film crew follows the newcomer, providing moral support and documenting his journey to (hopefully) become a champion.
The film “Surf’s Up” (2007) cleverly adopts a reality-show aesthetic, even mimicking the style of a Michael Moore documentary. The camera work is deliberately shaky, interspersed with stand-up interviews, voice-over narration, and flashbacks to the protagonist’s childhood. This approach gives the film a unique and engaging feel.
Breaking the Mold of Animated Films
The creators of “Surf’s Up” (directors of Disney’s “Tarzan” (1999) and “Toy Story 2” (1999)) believed that incorporating elements of television journalism would help their movie stand out from the crowd of animated features like “Open Season” (2006), “Home on the Range” (2004), and the “Madagascar” series. They aimed to create something fresh and innovative within the genre.
A Fresh Perspective
By using a documentary-style approach, “Surf’s Up” offers a unique and entertaining take on the classic sports movie formula. The film’s humor and heart, combined with its innovative visual style, make it a memorable and enjoyable experience for audiences of all ages.