- Sensibility: The veracity of the story helps explain even some of the most extreme elements, but certain actions and scene choreographies, particularly a last ditch attack from a captive and the following restraints feel more Hollywood than real.
- Cinematography: Costuming, production design, framing, lighting are all excellent. The film has many very striking shots and does a brilliant job at maintaining the tension and feelings of fear throughout. However, the film gets fairly repetitious with the shot-making around the military control room and a scene swimming in water is a bit messy visually and in choreography.
- Energy: Although the film starts out a little choppy, it film gives little room for the viewer to breathe, much like the experience as a hostage.
- Narrative: An incredible true story whose only weaknesses come from the artificial scenes conspicuously added to either contextualize Philips' family or for cinematic effect. The portions of the story focusing surround the Somalians is particularly effective.
- T-Points: The film received two bonus points: one for the level of detail and precision in the rescue/negotiation efforts and one for a scene where Captain Phillips is in shock being evaluated.
Great true story with an all-time lead from Tom Hanks. Felt topical watching a movie about Somalian pirates with the news right now and the film did not disappoint.
Number of Watches: 2
