Is Rise Above Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2003)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

In the evolving tapestry of Modern Cinema cinema, the 2003 release of Rise Above stands as a landmark endeavor that pushes the boundaries of conventional storytelling. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into Rise Above is the first surfing video released from Seven Films. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Modern Cinema are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "Rise Above is the first surfing video released from Seven Films. Directed by Ryan Ray and D. Miele, Rise Above features: Hawaii’s Winter 2002/2003–Backdoor, Off The Wall, Rocky Point and Pipeline featuring standout performances by Joel Parkinson, Andy Irons, Shane Dorian, Taj Burrow and everyone else who was ripping! Exclusive Mentawais boat trip footage of young guns Sean Moody, Brian Pacheco, Jason Shibata & Geoff Brack (and of course, Gavin Beschen) Mick Fanning, Mike Losness & …more Jamie O’Brien on The Search in Indonesia West Oz with CJ & Damien Hobgood, Andy Irons and more… 2002 Freesurf sessions at J-Bay, including a standout performance by Kelly Slater Shane Dorian solo dominating a ledging South African right-hander Andy Irons’ Pipe Masters win and his World Championship moment California’s Winter 2003, focusing on Orange County’s favorite right-hand barrel."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. The presence of Joel Parkinson provides a necessary level of professionalism to the production, even when the underlying script struggles to maintain a consistent tone. It is a testament to their skill that they remain the most engaging element of the film.

The direction by D. Miele is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 38 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is Rise Above truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Modern Cinema, then this is a worthwhile watch if you have a specific interest in the themes or the performers involved.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 0/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, Rise Above explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2003 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and D. Miele respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, Rise Above is an interesting experiment that, while flawed, offers enough moments of creative spark to be worth a casual glance for the curious. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Joel Parkinson or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Rise Above is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.