Review of The Finest Hours (2016) by George K — 27 Feb 2017

Just over a year old, The Finest Hours directed by Craig Gillespie and released by Disney tells the true story of a rescue mission off the coast of Massachusetts. Although this type of story can be seen as predictable, the film still strives in aspects of acting, impressive effects, and the overall portrayal of bravery and persistence.

The Finest Hours takes place in the winter of 1952, as one of the largest incoming storms the area has endured causes an oil tanker to split in two, miles out on the water, leaving 32 men desperate for help. The captain of the U.S. Coast Guard station in Chatham orders an unlikely group of four volunteers to attempt a nearly impossible rescue mission.

The main character, Bernie Weber, leads the men out on a small rescue boat towards the sinking tanker, which is predicted to stay afloat for just a few hours longer, according to the first assistant engineer on the oil tanker Ray Sybert. Throughout the movie, we get to see the journey of the rescue team, the chaotic moments on the sinking tanker, and also the town of Chatham nervously waiting for the return of their men and possible survivors. Miriam, Bernie's fiancé, is one of those waiting, especially concerned since she originally didn't know Bernie left on this mission. Desperately trying to keep the remaining half of the ship afloat, Ray and the other men continue to work together despite the fact that they've lost communication with any potential help. With what the "true story" aspect holds, Bernie and his small group are able to find the oil tanker against all odds. Fitting all of the survivors onto the rescue boat, though, proved to be another challenge.

Although some movies may carry predictability throughout scenes, The Finest Hours showcases acting performances that keep an audience interested in watching. Bernie Weber, played by Chris Pine, does a good job at keeping a consistent tone of voice to match his stressful circumstances, along with serious facial expressions, making his emotion behind his performance believable. Ray Sybert, the assistant engineer on the sinking tanker played by Casey Affleck, also gives a convincing performance when making his quick, yet sometimes hesitant decisions in attempt to keep the tanker afloat. Besides a few solid acting performances, I thought Holiday Grainger's script and performance as Miriam was lacking a little. In the first few minutes of the film we learned of Miriam's fear of open waters which added to her worry for the men, but when showing her concern at the Coast Guard station, she seemed to lack a bit of emotion.

A different aspect that made this movie enjoyable was the portrayal of the 50's and the impressive effects out on the water. The 50's time period was represented well by many things such as the clothing, cars, hairstyles, and even furniture. Simple details really add to the approval of most viewers. Also, the visuals during the scenes of the oil tanker ripping in half and the rescue boat fighting huge waves were very good, in my opinion. The camera work in this film also adds good detail, such as straight on, close ups of Bernie during intense moments in the rescue boat, and low angles of the waves to show the intimidation of the harsh waters.

Overall, The Finest Hours ended as a fairly traditional, true story film, but was filled with content that made me want to keep watching. If you're a hardcore action and suspense seeking person, this movie may leave you a bit unsatisfied. But if you're looking for a good true story reenactment and don't mind a hint of romance and predictability here and there, this would be a good movie choice.