Surf's Up 2: WaveMania (2017)

Surf’s Up 2: WaveMania has the breezy charm of a Saturday-morning adventure with the playful twist of turning surf culture into a full-on team sport, where bragging rights matter less than who’s got your back when the water gets mean. It’s built for motion: wipeouts, wild stunts, and larger-than-life showmanship keep the energy popping, while Cody, Chicken Joe, and Lani bring an easygoing warmth that makes the jokes land and the friendships feel earned. The vibe is sunny and goofy but not weightless, nudging a simple, sincere message about teamwork and character without turning preachy. If you’re looking for something closer to the original’s mockumentary freshness, this sequel’s more straightforward and WWE-flavored, but if you want family-friendly surf action with a feel-good finish, it’s an easy ride to catch.

Surf’s Up 2: WaveMania is clearly trying to recapture the breezy, mockumentary-style charm of the first film while turning the stakes into a bigger “extreme adventure” about teamwork and character. The problem is it feels more like a loud, brand-y detour than a genuinely inspired sequel, with thin jokes, a predictable lesson, and a lot of action noise standing in for clever writing. If you’re hoping for the original’s wit, heart, and fresh documentary vibe, this one may leave you wondering why you bothered. Still, younger kids who just want colorful surfing peril, familiar faces, and a simple “friends work together” message will probably coast through it fine.