Captain Phillips chronicles the hijacking of the US container ship Maersk Alabama by a group of Somali Pirates. Led by Captain Richard Phillips, the film depicted his captivity and the instances that follows his release. Based on A Captain’s Duty: Somali Pirates, Navy SEALs, and Dangerous Days at Sea by Richard Phillips himself, the film isn’t as simple as it seemed. There were moments in it that some scenes oddly seemed predictable but due to their intensity, it still gives you that staggering affect of thrill and terror.
Tom Hanks for one delivered a powerful portrayal of someone under the mercy of another man. His interaction with pirate leader Muse (Barkhad Abdi) provided the heart of the film. Scenes that feels human and stretch a keen observation of the difference between two cultures.
Newcomer Barkhad Abdi provided a beautiful acting performance here that deserves respect and accolades. There was a raw approach in it, perhaps because he’s new but whatever it was – he should always make use of it.
This was a well-made film for it adapted a real event with less dramatics but more focus. Tom Hanks yet again proved why he’s still here and Paul Greengrass should be proud of this one because it’s truly a gem to be cited by film reviewers and film makers in the future.
Director: Paul Greengrass
Starring: Tom Hanks, Barkhad Abdi, Catherine Keener, Faysal Ahmed, David Washofsky, Corey Johnson, Chris Mulkey, Yuz Vazquez, Max Martini, Omar Berdouni
Rating: 8/10
*Captain Phillips received six Academy Award nominations, including the Best Picture category.
