Review of Flight (2012) by Phil P — 03 Jan 2014

"Whose God would do this?".

This is a film that iv'e been waiting for a while and now that it has finally released in the UK iv'e watched it. And after viewing it it baffles me that this isn't up for Best Picture at the Oscars. Especially when there's a mediocre film like 'Les Miserables' on the list - a joke and a travesty.

'Flight' is a complex and deep film that follows 'Whip Whitaker' a pilot on what is seemingly is an ordinary day for 'Whip' but quickly descends into madness when the plane malfunctions resulting in a plane crash But after due to his taking of alcohol and cocaine has to appear before a hearing. I was engrossed from start to finish starting with a stunning crash it takes you on a roller coaster ride as 'Whip' tries to deal with everything. 'Whip' is someone constantly in denial ignoring his drinking problem - and just when you think he's making progress he gets derailed and spirals back into his deluded life. At its heart 'Flight' is a character study of a man so in denial of his problems that he systematically destroys his own life and everyone else's around him - and only looks out for himself but he's also ashamed to some degree of himself even if he doesn't show it.

'Denzel' is up for a best actor at the Oscars and it's most certainly justifiable. He's on top form bringing the same charisma and charm he usually does but also a dark and self-destructive side through a fantastic portrayal of a drunk. Quite frankly the only two that should be nominated are 'Denzel' and 'Daniel Day Lewis' because they're so far better than the rest which are wasted on a nomination. There isn't a bad performance in sight whilst none reach the greatness of 'Denzel', 'John Goodman' and 'Don Chaedle' are great as 'Harling' and Hugh' respectively.

I have to mention the plane crash because not only is it a jaw dropping and scary crash it's scarily realistic' Feels strange to say but it's the best plane crash iv'e seen - there's vomiting, screaming and an unconscious stewardess. Also whilst not having the same impact the last 30 minutes are a perfect way to end the film not good but not bad its a transition period- has 'Whip' really learnt his lesson? maybe but we don't know due to the nature of this character and I really liked.

'Zemeckis' has created what I believe to be easily his best film. Starting with a jaw-dropping pane crash and sublime acting form 'Denzel' - why this isn't nominated for best picture is a bizarre notion to me. A near perfect character study on a charming yet highly destructive character 'Flight' is not just one of the best films in recent memory but one of my favourite of all time now - I can't recommend this enough 'Zemeckis' I salute you.