Liquid Bridge (2003)

Load of rubbish!!

A movie that not only functions as a solid scarefest but a razor-sharp satire.

Excellent and certainly provocative... If nothing else, the film is a real conversation starter.

The film never slows down or bores, plunging from one harrowing sequence to the next.

Liquid Bridge is the cinematography hero! Mesmerising visuals...relaxing, exciting, inspiring and evocative. The ocean scenes are majestic and incredibly beautiful, not to mention the quality surfing footage. The visual quality of this film is outstanding. Particularly enjoyed solid performances by Lani Tupu and Nathaniel lees. Both actors have that magic,impressionable film presence and their scenes linger on long after viewing the film. I enjoyed the in depth range of emotions covered in this film. The characters have a real and evolving presence which is believable and engages you on their emotional journeys.

I've never surfed in my life but after watching Liquid Bridge at the Sanctuary Cove Film Festival in Australia, I felt like riding these waves instantly. The visuals are of such intensity that it's not Nick (the main character) riding them, but you. You can feel your legs working. Some stunning photography and powerful visuals like the massive rolling waves, some of the jail scenes, the shower scene and exotic late afternoons. Also some well directed, touching scenes between Nick and his jail mentor and (especially later in the film) Nick and his girlfriend. Nick performed well and so did his mother. A topper.A joyful escape from the drudgery of life.

Ryan Kwanten gives a the sort of performance which clearly helped secure his spot in the TV series Summerland...and the brunette is hot! A good, by the books, thriller, but set around the world of surfing, which gives it the point of difference. Strong artwork and perfect fodder for the late teens/early twenties film goer. People might remember Skippy's Tony Bonner as the wheelchair bound ex surfer...and father to Ryan. Always a strong character actor, Bonner lends a level of maturity to the otherwise youngish cast. Wave action varies a little from slightly grainy to top quality but overall takes the viewer on a nice, warm ride. Watch for some cameo roles from former Aussie surfing heroes.

Unfortunately, this movie will probably never be shown in Canada. I'll have to wait for it to come out on DVD/VHS. From what my e-pals tell me it is a great film. As well, the trailer looks great! I am perplexed as why M. Lani john Tupu is not given credit :((((