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Bra Boys

An engaging surfing doc, not the unwanted sequel to "Sorority Boys"

By Matt Pais

Metromix
June 6, 2008

Critic's Rating:

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This documentary follows the lives of the "Bra Boys," the notorious surfing tribe from Australia's Maroubra Beach known both for their skills in the water and frequent violent encounters in the community. Some of the gang's most high-profile members are pro surfer Koby Abberton; his older brother, Jai, who was charged for murder in 2003; and eldest brother Sunny, who co-wrote and co-directed the movie.
 
Big question: Will "Bra Boys" appeal to wide audiences for reasons other than the distracting narration from Russell Crowe?
 
Catch it: Though predictably biased towards the Abbertons and their friends, "Bra Boys" is about the fearlessness bred in dangerous territory--from brawling with cops and rival surfers to staying on your board even while bleeding in shark-infested waters. It's also a story of loyalty that men can relate to while their significant others see "Sex and the City."
 
Skip it: If you don't want to be reminded of your even semi-rough upbringing. Koby's account of his heroin addict mom and her bank robber boyfriend makes it very clear why the guys found solace at the beach. Hell, escaping to the North Pole sounds like a more stable childhood.
 
Bottom line: The legal issues don't really mesh with the surfing scenes, since Sunny Abberton clearly knows more about navigating the ocean than transitioning from one idea to the next. As a whole, though, "Bra Boys" works as a look at men navigating their circumstances -- from community criticism to the nearby Long Bay jail, which looms over the beach -- and surfing as both a way out and a proud tradition that fuels more conflict.
 
Bonus: One of the boys explains that fights happen so often that he has no choice but to keep a baseball bat in his pants for protection. This also provides an unexpected answer to the question, "Is that a bat in your pants, or are you just happy to see me?"

What do you think of 'Bra Boys'? Email me: mpais@tribune.com

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