Liquid Bridge (2003)

As a distributor I believe that this is a good feel movie that will attract teenagers and young people. The film is very entertaining, the story well told, the lead characters looked good and their motivations well defined. There are some very touching moments where the characters are moved by emotions without having to say word by word what they feel. A rarity in today's movies... The love scenes are directed with sensitivity. The music is hip, typical of young audiences and work quite well. The photography of the waves and the coast of Eastern Australia is at times very aesthetic and exciting. The direction overall is very good with nice touches of both, tenderness and excitement. This is a movie that will inspire you to surf into the high waves of life. Don't miss it.

The newly inaugurated Gold Coast Independent Film Festival is screening a cross section of Australian films this week. One of them was "Liquid Bridge" written and produced by Phil Avalon. It was an example of what producers can put on the screen when working on an "Independent's" budget. Some strong performances and jaw-dropping footage of surfers riding mountain sized waves are audience pleasers. Eye candy for both sexes is plentiful but the film has a real heart beating underneath. There's more than enough sex, drugs and surfing to go around but the basic story of a young man stepping outside of his father's shadow is touching and in good hands in this film.

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.

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 :((((