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Riptide (2022)

TV show

CTV score2.7/ 10

Where to watch Riptide in Australia

Streaming availability data from JustWatch.

About Riptide

Alison has just married Australian Sean Weston. Both of their children struggle with the new family situation, and Alison's former husband wants her back. When Sean disappears during a morning surf, it is not clear if he got caught up in a rip tide or if there is more to his disappearance.

Year
2022
Genres
Drama, Mystery, Thriller
Seasons
1
Director
Jason Herbison

What our critics think

Independent reviews from the Compare TV editorial team.

Review Team

★★★★★3.5/5

Riptide, directed by Jason Herbison, presents a poignant exploration of family dynamics through the lens of mystery. The story follows Alison, who, after marrying Sean, faces the trials of blending families amidst the backdrop of Sean's sudden disappearance during a surf. The film effectively captures the emotional turmoil and the challenges of starting anew. The performances, particularly by the leads, are commendable, adding depth to their struggles as they grapple with uncertainty and past relationships. However, the pacing occasionally falters, and some plot elements might feel predictable to seasoned viewers. Overall, Riptide is a thoughtful examination of love and loss that offers moments of genuine emotion, making it a worthy watch for those drawn to character-driven narratives.

Editor Team

★★★★★4/5

Riptide is a gripping tale that dives deep into the emotional currents of family life. The film captures the tension of Alison's new marriage to Sean, juxtaposed against the backdrop of his mysterious disappearance while surfing. The performances are raw and evocative, particularly the portrayal of Alison's internal struggle as she navigates her past and present. The cinematography beautifully showcases the Australian coastline, adding a layer of poignancy to the narrative. While some might find the pacing a bit slow, the film's emotional weight more than compensates for it. Riptide is a heartfelt exploration of love, loss, and the complexities of family, making it a compelling watch that lingers long after the credits roll.

How viewers describe this

  • emotional
  • suspenseful
  • engaging
  • poignant
  • dramatic
  • thoughtful
  • predictable
  • intense
  • heartfelt
  • complex
  • captivating
  • moving

Riptide seasons

Streaming Charts

The JustWatch Streaming Charts are calculated by user activity from the last 24 hours.

Got a question about Riptide?

Is Riptide worth watching?

Riptide offers a compelling mix of family drama and mystery, making it worth a watch for those who enjoy character-driven stories. The film explores the complexities of blended families while introducing an element of suspense with Sean's mysterious disappearance. If you appreciate emotional narratives that delve into relationships, Riptide may resonate with you.

What is Riptide really about?

Riptide revolves around Alison, who has recently married Sean Weston. The film focuses on the challenges faced by their children as they adjust to this new family dynamic. Tension escalates when Sean goes missing during a surf session, leaving Alison to navigate her emotions and the uncertainty of whether he was caught in a rip tide or if something more sinister occurred.

Is Riptide suitable for children?

Riptide contains themes of family conflict and suspense surrounding a disappearance, which may not be suitable for very young children. Parents should consider the emotional depth and potential tension in the film when deciding if it's appropriate for their children. It may be better suited for older teens and adults.

Is Riptide scary?

While Riptide is not a traditional horror film, it does contain elements of suspense and emotional tension. The mystery surrounding Sean's disappearance can create an unsettling atmosphere, but it is more focused on drama than horror. Viewers looking for a thrilling experience may find certain scenes intense, but it is not designed to be a frightening film.

What happens at the end of Riptide?

Spoiler alert: At the film's conclusion, the mystery of Sean's disappearance is resolved, revealing the truth behind his absence. Alison faces a pivotal moment that challenges her understanding of love and commitment. The ending leaves viewers contemplating the complexities of relationships and the impact of past choices on present circumstances.

Is there a sequel to Riptide?

As of now, there is no official sequel to Riptide. While the film's open-ended nature leaves room for further exploration of the characters' journeys, any plans for a follow-up have not been confirmed by the filmmakers.

Where can I watch Riptide in Australia?

Riptide is available for streaming on various platforms in Australia. You can check popular services like Amazon Prime Video or local rental services to see if they have the film available for viewing.

What films are similar to Riptide?

If you enjoyed Riptide, you might appreciate films that explore family dynamics and emotional conflicts, such as The Incredibly True Adventure of Two Girls in Love or The Descendants. These films share themes of love, loss, and the complexities of relationships.