Categories
Capsule Legacy

Back to the Beach (1987)

It was a promising idea to “reboot” the beach party films with Annette and Frankie in mid-life crisis, and a new set of younger surfers ready to take the helm. Swap in 80s kitsch for the old 60s kitsch. They just forgot to make it good.

Avalon in particular is a liability to the film… though the kid actor is, unsurprisingly, a nightmare on screen. (Sorry, bro, hope you’re doing well these days.)

Lots of charming cameos and throwbacks, but not nearly as fun as I was hoping.

Easily the best moment is Pee Wee’s wild rendition of “Surfin’ Bird”

Is It Good?

Not Very Good (3/8)

Note: This capsule review was originally published elsewhere. If I watch this movie again, I might expand this to a full-length review.


Dan is the founder and head critic of The Goods. Follow Dan on Letterboxd. Join the Discord for updates and discussion.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *