Watch Tan Lines

Tan Lines is a coming-of-age film that explores the complexities of family, friendship, and surfing culture in Australia. The movie, which was released in 2005, follows the story of Midget Hollows, a talented surfer who struggles to make a name for himself in a world dominated by big brands, corporate sponsors, and ruthless competition.

Midget (played by Jack Baxter) is a restless young man who dreams of becoming a professional surfer and leaving behind his mundane life in the seaside town of Newcastle. Despite his father's disapproval and his brother's envy, Midget spends most of his time chasing waves and hanging out with his best friend, Rabbit (played by Jed Clarke).

Rabbit is Midget's loyal sidekick, a happy-go-lucky bloke who loves to party, drink, and hook up with girls. Rabbit is not interested in surfing, but he supports Midget in his quest for glory and helps him navigate the tricky waters of the local scene, where rivalries, alliances, and betrayals are the norm.

Midget and Rabbit's world is turned upside down when a new girl arrives in town. Cassie (played by Lorena Arancibia) is a beautiful, free-spirited traveler who captures Midget's heart and challenges his priorities. Cassie is not a surfer, but she loves the ocean and the thrill of adventure. She brings out Midget's romantic side and makes him question his obsession with surfing.

As Midget tries to balance his feelings for Cassie and his passion for surfing, he faces a series of obstacles that test his courage, his loyalty, and his identity. Midget's father is a bitter, alcoholic ex-surfer who resents his son's ambitions and blames him for his own failures. Midget's brother is a jealous, resentful man who feels overshadowed by his younger sibling and is willing to do anything to undermine him. Midget's competitors are a group of talented, ruthless surfers who use every trick in the book to win contests and gain sponsorships.

Despite these challenges, Midget persists in his quest and learns valuable lessons about himself, his friends, and his dreams. He discovers that surfing is not just a sport, but a way of life, a culture that embraces risk, freedom, and creativity. He realizes that his relationship with Rabbit is more important than any trophy or prize. He understands that Cassie is not just a love interest, but a muse who inspires him to see the world differently.

Tan Lines is a visually stunning movie that captures the beauty and excitement of surfing, as well as the stark realities of small-town life. The film's cinematography is spectacular, with breathtaking shots of waves, beaches, and landscapes. The soundtrack is eclectic and energetic, featuring rock, reggae, and indie music. The performances by the lead actors are impressive, with Jack Baxter delivering a nuanced portrayal of Midget and Lorena Arancibia bringing depth and authenticity to Cassie.

Overall, Tan Lines is a thoughtful, entertaining movie that explores universal themes of youth, identity, and passion. The film's message is clear: follow your dreams, but don't forget to enjoy the journey and appreciate the people who support you along the way. Whether you are a surfer or not, Tan Lines is a film that will leave you inspired and moved.

Tan Lines is a 2007 drama. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.3.