A former college football superstar turned FBI secret agent is sent to hunt down a group of bank robbers.
A washed up veteran and an up and coming FBI rookie, looking to make a name for himself are thrown together by their domineering captain in order to catch a group of bank robbers known as the "Ex Presidents" because of the masks they wear during their heists.
In order to infiltrate the gang, "Agent Johnny Utah" is forced to learn how to surf and has to live the life of the men he is tracking. His partner "Pappas" has to change his views on a few things as together the agents on the complete opposite of the spectrum learn to work together. "Utah" has to come to terms with his feelings for "Tyler" and decide where exactly his allegiances lie as he tries to bring down the men intent on ending his career, permanently.
Keanu Reeves heads up the fairly well known cast in what has become a cult classic amongst surfers and film fans, playing the role of former college football legend "Johnny Utah" who joined the FBI after blowing out his knee in a championship game. He gives a respectable performance, but it clear that he certainly improved as he got older. His facial expressions (concerned look which he seems to perpetually wear) is a touch boring in places, but he fits in well with the whole surfing lifestyle you find it easy to root for his gun-ho attitude to things.
Hollywood veteran Gary Busey does well as the abrasive, yet somewhat pathetic, "Agent Pappas", written off by his superiors for his whacky ideas, but a lot smarter than people give him credit for. His character is convincing and likeable. Legendary Patrick Swayze is perfect in the role of philosophical surfer "Bodhi", always in search of the perfect wave, but taken to robbing banks in his spare time. His performance is almost personal, as if he truly believes what he is sprouting, but, probably one of his finest roles. He is a bad guy you cannot really dislike, instead, respect for his rugged determination.
Little known Lori Petty, gives a passable showing as "Tyler" in what was probably her second biggest role behind 1995's "Tank Girl". Although a lead role, you sort of get the feeling that she is a bit part player, her acting talents never really coming to the fore. John C McGinley who went on to super stardom as "Doctor Cox in Scrubs" gives yet another superb performance as "Captain Ben Harp", a hard assed ball breaker as only this man can do. He is one of the highlights of the film.
Keep an eye out for a cameo from Anthony Kiedis of the Red Hot Chilly Peppers who does a fairly decent job in the role of "Tone". The film is very watchable indeed, with some truly spectacular cinematography of the surf and the men who try to master it. The action is intense and the story is well paced, certainly worth the two hours you spend watching it.
6.5/10
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