JANUARY 2024:

Miracle at the Movies…

Sully is a biographical drama film directed by Clint Eastwood, based on the autobiography Highest Duty: My Search for What Really Matters by Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger and Jeffrey Zaslow. The film recounts the events surrounding Sullenberger’s emergency landing of US Airways Flight 1549 on the Hudson River, also known as the “Miracle on the Hudson,” and its aftermath.

The story begins on January 15, 2009, as Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger, played by Tom Hanks, and First Officer Jeffrey Skiles, played by Aaron Eckhart, prepare for a routine flight from LaGuardia Airport to Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft strikes a flock of geese, causing both engines to fail. With no power and limited altitude, Sully makes the split-second decision to land the plane on the Hudson River. Miraculously, all 155 passengers and crew survive the ordeal.

As news of the miraculous landing spreads, Sully becomes a national hero. However, his actions come under scrutiny from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), who question whether he could have safely returned to LaGuardia or another nearby airport instead of landing in the river. Sully and Skiles must defend their actions and prove that they made the best decision given the circumstances.

Throughout the investigation, Sully grapples with the emotional toll of the incident, haunted by visions of what could have gone wrong. He finds solace in the unwavering support of his wife, Lorraine, played by Laura Linney, who stands by him as he faces the media frenzy and legal proceedings.

As the NTSB conducts simulations and analyses, they ultimately conclude that Sully’s decision to land on the Hudson was the only viable option and that he acted heroically in the face of adversity. Sully is exonerated of any wrongdoing, and his reputation as a skilled and courageous pilot is reaffirmed.

The film concludes with Sully returning to the cockpit for his first flight since the incident, demonstrating his resilience and dedication to his profession. He reflects on the lessons learned from the ordeal, emphasizing the importance of preparation, teamwork, and trust in times of crisis.

Critique:

Sully is a captivating portrayal of one of the most remarkable aviation incidents in history, masterfully brought to life by Clint Eastwood’s direction and Tom Hanks’ nuanced performance as Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger. The film effectively balances the tense moments of the emergency landing with the emotional aftermath and legal proceedings, offering audiences a comprehensive look at the events surrounding the “Miracle on the Hudson.”

One of the film’s greatest strengths is its authenticity, as Eastwood meticulously recreates the harrowing moments of Flight 1549’s emergency landing with stunning realism. From the panic and chaos inside the aircraft to the heroic efforts of the first responders on the Hudson River, every detail feels genuine and immersive, drawing viewers into the heart-pounding experience.

Central to the film’s success is Tom Hanks’ portrayal of Captain Sully, capturing both the steely resolve and vulnerability of the real-life hero. Hanks imbues Sully with a quiet dignity and humility, emphasizing his reluctance to embrace the label of “hero” and his internal struggle with self-doubt in the aftermath of the incident. The emotional depth of Hanks’ performance allows audiences to empathize with Sully’s journey and the weight of responsibility he carries as a pilot entrusted with the lives of his passengers.

Aaron Eckhart delivers a strong performance as First Officer Jeffrey Skiles, serving as a supportive foil to Sully’s stoicism. The camaraderie between Sully and Skiles is palpable, providing a compelling counterbalance to the intense drama unfolding in the cockpit and during the NTSB hearings. Laura Linney also shines in her role as Sully’s wife, Lorraine, conveying a mix of concern, pride, and unwavering support as she stands by her husband’s side throughout the ordeal.

Clint Eastwood’s direction is understated yet effective, allowing the story and performances to take center stage. His decision to present the events in a non-linear narrative adds depth to the storytelling, offering insights into Sully’s inner turmoil and the ripple effects of the incident on those involved. The use of flashbacks and dream sequences effectively heightens the emotional impact of the film, revealing Sully’s lingering trauma and the toll it takes on his psyche.

In addition to its gripping portrayal of the emergency landing and its aftermath, Sully also explores broader themes of heroism, professionalism, and the human capacity for resilience in the face of adversity. By highlighting the collaborative efforts of the flight crew, first responders, and investigators, the film celebrates the power of teamwork and preparedness in crisis situations. It also underscores the importance of trust and communication in aviation, emphasizing the need for rigorous training and adherence to safety protocols.

However, Sully is not without its flaws. Some critics have argued that the film glosses over certain aspects of the investigation, portraying the NTSB as overly antagonistic towards Sully and Skiles for the sake of dramatic tension. While Eastwood‘s decision to condense the timeline and simplify the events for narrative purposes is understandable, it may leave some viewers wanting a more nuanced exploration of the investigative process and the factors that led to the emergency landing.

Overall, Sully is a compelling and respectful tribute to the real-life heroes of US Airways Flight 1549, offering a stirring depiction of courage, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit. With its gripping performances, authentic portrayal of the events, and thoughtful exploration of its themes, the film stands as a testament to the power of ordinary individuals to rise to extraordinary challenges and emerge stronger on the other side.

Sully is available now to rent on all streaming platforms…