“I am an FBI agent.” —Johnny Utah
Today’s quick review: Point Break. To catch an elusive gang of bank robbers, FBI agent Johnny Utah (Keanu Reeves) goes undercover in the Los Angeles surfing community. His guide to the lifestyle is Tyler (Lori Petty), a surfer girl he finds himself drawn to. But Johnny loyalties begin to waver when Bodhi (Patrick Swayze), one of Tyler’s friends, shows him just how fulfilling the surf life can be.
Point Break is an action movie with a sports twist. Keanu Reeves stars as Johnny Utah, a young, driven FBI agent whose attitude makes him a natural fit for his new undercover assignment. Patrick Swayze plays opposite him as Bodhi, a dedicated surfer who sees potential in Johnny. Their friendship is put to the test as Johnny comes closer to identifying the bank robbers, jeopardizing his newfound sense of peace for the sake of his job.
As far as crime movies go, Point Break has an unusual emphasis on character. None of the individual characters are all that astounding, but clear tensions and a good plot progression make them feel worthwhile. Between bank robberies, chases, and plenty of waves, Point Break also has its fair share of action. Every now and then the film’s action movie conventions will clash with its character-driven plot, but generally the two sides go well together.
Point Break is worth a watch if you are in the mood for a crime drama that invests in its characters. Surf fans will get the most out of the film, but anyone can appreciate the characters, plot, and action. For a movie with a similar premise, but with street racing instead of surfing, check out The Fast and the Furious. For a documentary with all of the waves and none of the action, check out The Endless Summer.
7.2 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 7.0 for a good story and decent action.