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Each week, millions of people pack their bags, travel to the airport, and hop on a plane, arriving at work conferences or vacation destinations without really giving the flight a second thought. But Clint Eastwood’s real-life drama Sully shows that, for those in the cockpit, a few split-second decisions can make a huge difference in the lives of hundreds of passengers.
Sully tells the story of Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger (Tom Hanks), the captain of US Airways flight 1549, who was forced to make an emergency landing on the Hudson River in January of 2009. Though the media—and people on the street—called him a hero, he and First Officer Jeff Skiles (Aaron Eckhart) remained in a hotel in New York, away from their families, going from TV interview to boardroom, where the incident was investigated. And though Sully and Skiles remained positive that they did the right thing, the National Transportation Safety Board began to suggest otherwise.
The outcome of this story is no mystery. Even if you don’t remember the news reports of the event, called “The Miracle on the Hudson,” the film actually begins after the fact—after all 155 passengers and crew members have been safely returned to solid ground. Yet, somehow, Eastwood takes investigative hearings and flight simulations—things that could be incredibly dull—and mixes them with drama, flashbacks, and some charming characters to create something that’s often surprisingly tense.
The story may be pretty clear from the beginning, but the facts of the incident are doled out gradually, providing more details of the doomed flight as the film progresses. Eastwood builds just the right amount of suspense, holding back just enough of the details to keep audiences engaged as they wait for those final scenes, when the whole chaotic event finally plays out from beginning to end.
At the same time, though, Hanks helps to bring the story to life with another remarkable lead performance. His Sully is strong and determined yet totally down to earth—a normal, no-nonsense guy who’s just doing his job. In the cockpit, he’s calm and composed. After the incident, he’s lonely and scared and vulnerable, entirely uncomfortable with his new-found fame. He’s a guy that you know—your dad, your neighbor, your favorite uncle. And that makes his performance both compelling and moving.
Admittedly, the film is somewhat prone to melodrama and sentimentality. At times, it can all feel a little overplayed. But the story’s drama and simplicity are effective—and, thanks to a big boost from an outstanding starring performance, it makes for a fascinating look at a miraculous event.
With its mix of action and real-life drama, Sully will help audiences make a smooth transition from the noise and explosions of summer blockbuster season to the thoughtful films of award season. Be warned, however, that it may cause you to see your next flight in a new light.
Listen to the review on Reel Discovery:
