As a seasoned critic who has spent countless hours on sun-kissed beaches and in the hustle of emergency rooms, I can confidently say that “Rescue: HI-Surf” is an engaging addition to the first responder drama genre. The series’ unique setting on O’ahu’s North Shore infuses it with a rich tapestry of local issues and breathtaking scenery that sets it apart from its peers.
In the realm of emergency response dramas, Fox’s latest offering, “Rescue: HI-Surf,” sticks closely to familiar tropes. I find myself as a spectator in the midst of a tight-knit team, led by a resolute figure who carries the weight of past traumas beneath his stoic exterior. The fresh face, our newcomer, serves as an inviting guide into this world. Interestingly, each cast member seems to have a strict no-excess-fat policy.
What makes this series unique, apart from being produced and directed by the renowned John Wells (“The West Wing,” “ER”), is its backdrop. The protagonists, who are lifeguards, are based on O’ahu’s North Shore, a region known for its breathtaking landscapes and, more significantly, complex local matters unique to a geographically isolated tourist destination. As the show delves deeper into this characteristic, it becomes more engaging – although it sometimes gets caught up in the picturesque, tropical allure.
In the making of “Rescue: HI-Surf,” Matt Kester (“Animal Kingdom”) blends the well-known red swimsuits from “Baywatch” with the setting of “Hawai’i Five-0.” Robbie Magasiva, maintaining his native New Zealand accent, portrays Captain Sonny Jennings who oversees a team responsible for safeguarding a popular but hazardous stretch of beach. The initial title cards warn that the North Shore’s renowned break is known as “the most dangerous wave in the world,” peaking in shallow water over a rocky base.
In a less dramatic fashion than a 9-1-1 emergency call, the tasks given to Sonny’s team aren’t particularly major, often stretching only 43 minutes of screen time. From hikers trapped during flash floods, kayakers swept away by strong currents, and students trapped in sandpits, “Rescue HI-Surf” aims to make the lifeguards themselves the main attraction. Sonny grapples with guilt following the recent drowning of his nephew. Em (Arielle Kebbel), essentially Sonny’s right-hand woman and potential successor, navigates workplace sexism while flirting casually with her coworker Will (Adam Demos), a passionate Australian firefighter hopeful.
In a less compelling manner, Kebbel doesn’t fully embody the role of a bold, rugged tomboy, making it tough for viewers to invest emotions in the love complications between two attractive, childless individuals, despite their past relationship being repeatedly highlighted as Em and Will. A more engaging source of conflict arises between newcomers: Hina (Zoe Cipres), a local from the North Shore with a working-class background, and Kainalu (Alex Aiono), who has his father as the mayor-elect. Although Hina ranks first in their training academy class, initially it’s Kainalu who secures a spot on Sonny’s team due to his father’s promise of additional funding for the unit.
Unfortunately, Kainalu’s parent is seen only in the initial episode out of the four pre-released for critique. The series has potential to explore the complex political aspects affecting the characters’ work environments, as it’s uncommon for shows focused on public employees to tackle such job-related issues, especially given O’ahu’s distinctive challenges. Hina decides to leave her family home, but encounters the severe housing shortage prevalent on the island instead. Simultaneously, native Hawaiian character Laka (Kekoa Kekumano) teases Kainalu for attending Punahou, a private school famously attended by Barack Obama. However, “Rescue: HI-Surf” doesn’t solely support the struggles of the average locals against the affluent or newcomers; Will’s transition to the fire department faces obstacles due to his lack of local connections.
As a movie enthusiast, I’m eagerly anticipating “Rescue: HI-Surf” like a surfer yearning for the perfect wave. The series could undoubtedly ride on the captivating backdrop of its Hawaiian setting, with scenes gracefully gliding over crystal-clear waters onto pristine palm-studded shores. However, I fervently hope it delves deeper into the complexities that lie beneath the serene facade of paradise. The Maui fires, a significant event yet to be addressed, could serve as a powerful narrative element in this regard.
The initial two episodes of the show “Rescue: HI-Surf” will debut on Fox on September 22 at 8:00 pm Eastern Time and September 23 at 9:00 pm Eastern Time. Subsequent episodes will be broadcast every Monday at 9:00 pm Eastern Time thereafter.
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2024-09-22 19:47