I was excited to hear about a new lifeguard show this fall! As a huge fan of the campy Baywatch, I felt that this type of show was missing and TV lovers could use a fun, not-too-serious show to get lost in. So when Rescue: HI-Surf was announced I was all in immediately. The show even looked the part of Baywatch, granted it is hard not to compare any show or movie about good-looking lifeguards on the beach as Baywatch is the standard.
However, Rescue: HI-Surf is not Baywatch. The show is almost the complete opposite as it takes itself very seriously. To its credit, saving lives is a severe job but there is a way to approach this subject matter without trying too hard (think 9-1-1).
“Pilot” – Rescue-Hi Surf, Pictured: Robbie Magasiva as Sonny and Arielle Kebbel as Emily. Photo: Zach Dougan/FOX ©2024 Fox Media LLC. All Rights Reserved
Rescue: HI-Surf sets itself up for a really authentic portrayal of lifeguard life on the North Shore of O’ahu. Filming in such a challenging and dynamic environment definitely adds a layer of realism to the show. Sharks, whales, and weather can definitely make for a dramatic backdrop, and it’s cool that the series is embracing those elements as part of its storytelling. With John Wells at the helm, you can expect a production that’s as intense as the ocean it portrays.
There is some strong acting from lead Robbie Magasiva as Sonny and the use of local actors is great representation. Arielle Kebbel gives a solid performance and with the addition of Ian Anthony Dale, the cast is set. Unfortunately, that is where the positives about the series end. Nothing is thrilling or daring about the rescues. Even when faced with drowning victims, sand collapses and shark attacks, the story fell flat.
“Pilot” – Rescue-Hi Surf, Pictured: Alex Aiona as Kainalu, Kekoa Kekumano as Laka and Adam Demos as Will Photo: Zach Dougan/FOX ©2024 Fox Media LLC. All Rights Reserved
Every episode (I screened the first four) has a similar story- tourists not familiar with the treacherous waters of Hawaii. You have characters we have seen before as well – the dumb jock, the rich kid who didn’t earn his spot, women fighting for a place in a male driven profession, exes that have to work together, nothing new or exciting. Adam Demos is severely underused so far and that is a big disappointment.
I had such high expectations and hopes for this new show and maybe it just needs time to find its footing, but if the first four episodes are any indication of the tone of the show, things are not looking good. Rescue Hi Surf had a lot of potential based on on the premises, but again, the early episodes aren’t quite hitting the mark.
About the Author – Je-Ree Olenik
Je-Ree is the definition of a Jersey Girl. A true nerd who loves her comics. When not watching tv she is a paralegal by day. She loves writing, reading, binging all the newest shows and spending time with her family. Twitter @jereereviews
