Sully is a skilfully made reconstruction of a recent real-life feat of heroic professionalism. But narrative tension is sorely lacking.
Eastwood’s message that no good deed goes unpunished feels misplaced, but for the crash sequences and Hanks’ turn it’s worthwhile. But for goodness’ sake, don’t watch it on a plane.
Sullenberger's heroics made for a great news story, now, in the capable hands of director and star, they are the foundations for a riveting, cinematic drama.
It’s a tale of quiet, unfussy heroism; of highly trained professionals doing their jobs in the most challenging circumstances imaginable.
Clint Eastwood’s film about the heroic pilot who landed his passenger jet on New York’s Hudson river after both engines failed is a simplistic, anticlimactic treatment that avoids the bigger questions.
Minimal tabloid sensationalism, maximum human insight.
It is Eastwood’s unfussy direction and Hanks’ nicely understated performance that ensure you are totally caught up in this heartfelt salute to an all-American hero.
Where the film succeeds in a big way – aside from casting Hanks and Eckhart – is the recreation of the emergency landing itself and its immediate aftermath: it’s thrilling, heart-in-mouth stuff.
Tom Hanks brings dignity to the role of pilot Chesley Sullenberger while Clint Eastwood directs with cool efficiency.
Chesley Sullenberger: an old-fashioned kind of hero
General release. Check local listings for show times.
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