About Johnny Tsunami

"Johnny Tsunami" is a 1999 Disney Channel Original Movie. The movie follows Johnny Kapahaala, a young surfer from Hawaii who moves to Vermont with his family where he has to adapt to a new environment, new friends and the world of snowboarding. Despite various challenges like dealing with a bunch of snobby skiers and missing his old life, Johnny emerges victorious at a skiing competition, earning him the nickname 'Johnny Tsunami'.

Making / Production

'Johnny Tsunami' was part of the burgeoning Disney Channel Original Movie lineup that grew popular in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The movie was shot in Utah and Oahu and the production values and settings brought the contrasting worlds of sunny Hawaii and snowy Vermont vividly to life.

Actors

• Brandon Baker - Playing the role of Johnny Kapahaala, Baker effectively portrays the struggle of a teenager adapting to a new environment and culture.
• Mary Page Keller - As Johnny's mother, Mel, Keller provides a comforting presence amidst Johnny's turbulent change of scenery.
• Yuji Okumoto - Yuji, playing Johnny's grandfather, brilliantly exemplifies the spirit of 'ohana' in Hawaiian culture.
• Lee Thompson Young - Young takes on the role of Sam Sterling, Johnny's new friend in Vermont.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Despite being set in Vermont, the movie was actually shot in Utah.
• The movie's theme song, "Fireproof," was performed by the band Pillar.
• Johnny Tsunami was referenced in the Disney Channel series 'The Suite Life of Zack & Cody.'

Quotes

• "Go big or go home!" - Johnny Kapahaala
• "Just remember, the mountain's not going anywhere." - Grandpa Johnny

Music, Soundtrack

• "Fireproof" - Pillar
• "Orion" - ShyBoy
• "Cruisin'" - Check in the Dark

Awards

While the movie itself didn't win any awards, its charm and likable characters have made it a fan-favorite among Disney Channel Original Movies. Brandon Baker's performance was especially lauded by young audiences.