On Jan. 15, 2009, Capt. Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger (Tom Hanks) tries to make an emergency landing in New York's Hudson River after US Airways Flight 1549 strikes a flock of geese. Miraculously, all of the 155 passengers and crew survive the harrowing ordeal, and Sullenberger becomes a national hero in the eyes of the public and the media. Despite the accolades, the famed pilot now faces an investigation that threatens to destroy his career and reputation.
For those who didn't hear or know about this story or perhaps felt this was nothing more than a reenactment of the event back in 2009. This was a larger story about the tribulations Capt. Sullenberger went through beyond what was written, celebrated and seen on TV. The news back in 2009 ran this story on Captain Sullenberger as a hero who saved 155 passengers when birds knocked out both engines on their plane. Cheers and rejoicing was heard throughout the nation. Especially when we find out there could have been another plane crash in New York City reminiscent of 2001. But that is not what this story is about. This story turns out to be about the struggle a man went through, wondering if he really made the right decision and as he went back over his life (through flash backs and dreams). He wondered did his experience really help him with that decision. Also on top of all of his internal struggles,what we see the FAA, the airline owners attempting to blame someone for this incident that occurred and directing all their energy to point it to the captain. All of this and likelihood that his illustrious career and retirement will disappear with their decision on who to blame.
Clint Eastwood once again directs an emotional experience you go through with this reserved professional airline pilot. He shows you the emotional interaction with his wife that seems to anguish over every little thing. A reoccurring daydream Sully has about the plane crashing because he didn't land in the Hudson. But most of all how the Government investigators try to shift blame to someone other than the airline. Very somber but visually exciting by way of realistic memories of what happened. This is an oscar nominee on many levels (actor, supporting actor, picture and perhaps screenplay). A little slow for some who don't go to the movies to balance emotional experiences and excitement. But a very good movie of a strong man sticking to his morals, professionalism and experience to show the world that you must look after your fellow man. Very good movie.