Johnny Kapahala: Back on Board

About Johnny Kapahala: Back on Board

"Johnny Kapahala: Back on Board" is a 2007 Disney Channel Original Movie and sequel to the 1999 film "Johnny Tsunami". The storyline revolves around a enthusiastic surfer, Johnny Kapahala, who returns to Hawaii for his grandfather's wedding only to discover an unwelcome member is joining the family - a 12-year-old dirtboarding champion, Chris.

The plot thickens as Chris seems to be involved with a dirtboarding group called "The Dirt Devils", who are plotting to take over the family’s surf shop. It's due to Johnny's love for surfing and his understanding of the true spirit of dirtboarding, that he brings harmony to the family and also saves the surf shop from the rivals.

Making / Production

The movie was shot in New Zealand, doubles as the beautiful location of Hawaii. Directed by Eric Bross and written by Ann Austen, Douglas Sloan, Max Enscoe and Annie DeYoung, it's a youthful action comedy film that continued the successful legacy of its precursor.

Actors

• Brandon Baker as Johnny Kapahala - A charismatic young man whose life revolves around surfing. Baker portrays the character’s confidence and eagerness effectively.
• Jake T. Austin as Chris - An unanticipated new family member and dirtboard enthusiast. Austin impressively depicts the struggles of his character fitting into the family and the dirtboarding crowd.
• Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa as Grandpa Johnny - The patient and wise patriarch. Tagawa perfectly navigates his character's role as a mentor and peacemaker within the family and community.
• Robyn Lively as Carla - Johnny’s loving mother. Lively encompasses the warmth and support her character extends like a true mom.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• "Johnny Kapahala: Back on Board" is a sequel coming out eight years after the original movie "Johnny Tsunami".
• Although the story is set in Hawaii, the entire film was shot in Auckland, New Zealand.
• The film introduces the action sport of dirtboarding to a younger audience.

Quotes

• “Trust the board, and you can ride any wave.” - Johnny Kapahala
• “It’s not about the team, it’s about the thrill.” - Chris
• “Sometimes it takes a wipeout to really understand the wave.” - Grandpa Johnny

Music, Soundtrack

• "Different Summers" - Demi Lovato
• "Pass Me By" - R5
• "Summertime Anthem" - Eric Hutchinson
• "Made to Love" - TobyMac