REVIEW: Baywatch

Based on the popular series of the same name, the film features Dwayne Johnson as the all mighty lieutenant lifeguard, Mitch Buchannon. Zac Efron portrays the “too cool for (lifeguard) school” Matt Brody, and Johnson’s sort of mentee. Alexandra Daddario, Kelly Rohrbach, and Ilfenesh Hadera make up the female Baywatch lifeguards: Summer Quinn, CJ Parker, and Stephanie Holden respectively.

If you’re looking for a film you can escape to with ease, that’s filled with crude humor, beach bods, and attractive people – this film is for you. If you’re not a fan of  dick jokes, the continuous use of the F bomb, or raunchy material in general, I’d probably steer clear.

What I really appreciated about this film was how well they portrayed each of their characters, especially their female characters! For instance, the female members of Baywatch participated just as much in the crime solving/life saving as the men. They aren’t there to just flounce around on the beach in swimsuits and do what their male counterparts tell them to do. Not once did CJ have a stereotypical dumb blonde moment; Stephanie has just as much expertise on the Bay and lifeguard knowledge as Mitch, and “not a single fuck was given” from Summer on Matt’s continued interest in her. Yes, Summer Quinn is Matt Brody’s love interest, but she paves the way for their potential relationship, not him.

Lastly, we can’t forget that the main antagonist is female, too: Victoria Leeds (Priyanka Chopra). Sure she’s the villainous character, but I found it fascinating how she holds the entire Bay in the palm of her hand, using her mad manipulation skills to do so.

The continued banter between the police and the Baywatch lifeguards was my favorite comedic part of Baywatch. Realistically, these characters are just lifeguards – their only job is to watch over the beach, save people from the occasional drowning, and make sure everyone follows the Bay’s rules. Instead, they play detective to try and figure out Victoria’s motives, nearly getting themselves killed in the process. But I guess that’s what makes Baywatch well… Baywatch.

I knew going into the theater to see Baywatch that I wasn’t going to see anything mind blowing. Just a fun summer movie that would probably make me want to live next to a beach, go on vacation, etc. Does this happen to anyone else when they watch movies/shows where it’s set on a beach/island? But nonetheless, I recommend everyone see this film and appreciate it for everything it is. Also, fans of the TV series, you’re going to love the couple of Baywatch original co-stars that make an appearance!

Baywatch is now playing in theaters. The trailer can be viewed below.

Already saw the movie? Leave your thoughts in the comments!