Sully (2016) Review: A Captivating Tale of Heroism and Resilience

Directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Tom Hanks in a career-defining performance, Sully is a riveting drama based on the true story of Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger and the miraculous emergency landing of US Airways Flight 1549 on the Hudson River. With its intense storytelling, powerful performances, and meticulous attention to detail, the film offers an emotional and inspiring look at a modern-day hero and the challenges he faced in the aftermath of his extraordinary actions.

Plot Overview: The Miracle on the Hudson

The film begins with Captain Sully Sullenberger (Tom Hanks) and First Officer Jeff Skiles (Aaron Eckhart) successfully landing their disabled plane on the Hudson River on January 15, 2009, saving the lives of all 155 passengers and crew onboard. Dubbed the “Miracle on the Hudson,” the event quickly earns Sully national acclaim.

However, as the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigates the incident, Sully faces intense scrutiny over his decision to land the plane in the river rather than attempting a return to LaGuardia Airport. The film alternates between the moments leading up to the emergency landing, the harrowing rescue, and Sully’s internal and external struggles in the aftermath.

Tom Hanks as Sully: A Masterful Performance

Tom Hanks delivers a deeply human and restrained performance as Captain Sullenberger, capturing the quiet strength and humility of a man thrust into the national spotlight. Hanks portrays Sully as a seasoned professional haunted by self-doubt and the weight of responsibility, making his portrayal both relatable and inspiring. His ability to convey emotion through subtle expressions and body language elevates the film, adding layers of depth to the character.

Aaron Eckhart as Jeff Skiles: A Grounded Counterpart

Aaron Eckhart shines as First Officer Jeff Skiles, providing both levity and support to Sully during their ordeal. Eckhart’s chemistry with Hanks underscores the camaraderie and professionalism between the two pilots, while his sharp humor and unwavering loyalty add warmth to the story.

Themes: Heroism, Resilience, and the Human Factor

1. Heroism Under Pressure: The film celebrates Sully’s calm and decisive actions during the emergency, highlighting the importance of experience, intuition, and composure in the face of adversity.
2. The Human Factor: By focusing on the NTSB investigation, Sully examines the tension between human judgment and computer simulations, emphasizing the irreplaceable value of human intuition.
3. Resilience and Integrity: The story delves into Sully’s resilience as he navigates public adoration and bureaucratic scrutiny, showcasing his commitment to truth and the safety of others.

Direction and Cinematography: A Tense and Immersive Experience

Clint Eastwood’s direction is both efficient and emotionally resonant, emphasizing realism and character over spectacle. The film’s non-linear structure keeps the narrative engaging, juxtaposing the quiet moments of Sully’s introspection with the intensity of the emergency landing.

The cinematography by Tom Stern captures the grandeur and danger of the Hudson River with vivid detail. The sequences aboard the plane are particularly gripping, using tight framing and dynamic sound design to place viewers directly in the passengers’ and crew’s perspective.

Key Moments That Define Sully

1. The Emergency Landing: The reenactment of Flight 1549’s harrowing descent is a masterclass in tension and realism, combining stunning visuals with emotional weight.
2. The NTSB Hearing: The dramatic turning point where Sully defends his decisions against computer simulations highlights the film’s central theme of human intuition versus technology.
3. The Emotional Aftermath: Scenes of Sully reflecting on the incident, including his phone call to his wife and interactions with survivors, provide insight into the personal toll of heroism.

Strengths of Sully

1. Tom Hanks’ Performance: Hanks embodies Sully with understated brilliance, capturing the hero’s grace under pressure and inner vulnerability.
2. Tense and Emotional Storytelling: The film balances its thrilling recreation of the emergency landing with poignant character-driven moments.
3. Clint Eastwood’s Direction: Eastwood’s restrained and focused approach allows the story to shine without unnecessary embellishment.
4. Realism and Authenticity: The meticulous attention to detail, from the cockpit procedures to the NTSB investigation, enhances the film’s credibility.

Weaknesses of Sully

1. Simplistic NTSB Depiction: The portrayal of the NTSB as antagonistic and overly critical has been criticized for oversimplifying the investigative process.
2. Limited Character Development: The supporting characters, including Sully’s wife (Laura Linney), receive less depth, leaving the focus squarely on Sully.
3. Predictable Outcome: As a well-known event, the film’s climax lacks suspense, though the storytelling compensates with emotional engagement.

Legacy and Reception

Sully was widely praised for its gripping storytelling, strong performances, and Clint Eastwood’s direction. Tom Hanks received acclaim for his portrayal of Sully, solidifying his status as one of Hollywood’s most reliable and versatile actors. The film was also a box office success, resonating with audiences for its celebration of professionalism, heroism, and human resilience.

Fun Facts About Sully

1. Real-Life Involvement: The real Captain Chesley Sullenberger served as a consultant for the film, ensuring accuracy in the depiction of events.
2. Shot on Location: Parts of the film were shot on the Hudson River, adding authenticity to the reenactment of the emergency landing.
3. Dual Themes: The film not only dramatizes the incident but also examines the psychological and emotional impact on Sully after the event.

Conclusion: A Tribute to Modern Heroism

Sully (2016) is a powerful and inspiring film that highlights the best of human courage, expertise, and resilience. With Tom Hanks delivering a career-defining performance and Clint Eastwood crafting a taut and emotionally resonant narrative, the film stands as a fitting tribute to an extraordinary event and the ordinary hero who made it possible. Whether you’re drawn to character-driven dramas or true stories of heroism, Sully is a must-watch.