Review of United 93 (2006) by Mainem. — 22 Oct 2006
A brilliant film that I could not give a 10, because it is painful to watch at times, as it probably should be. The film unfolds in almost real-time, focusing only on the events over US airspace on that morning.
The first half of the movie mostly deals with the frenzied disbelief of those controlling and protecting the airspace, and gradually works it way down to the mesmerizing, and painful final 30 minutes on board flight 93.
It is a small movie about a huge event, and that's what makes it work. It is a well-crafted, and tightly knit thriller, with excellent pacing, and, even though you know what will happen, you'll still watch with both anticipation and horror.
Other reviews complain about a lack of context and character development, but, I think we all have a context for these events, and the whole point of the film is that these were just people doing what they needed to do.
The smattering of personal information is still enough, that when the passengers make those final cell-phone calls to their families, it remains gut-wrenching. Their final decision to storm the terrorists is a simple one, made from circumstance, and highlights the fact that heroic actions are not those of grand plans and designs, but of necessity, to prevent harm to others.
If you are not ready to re-live that day from another perspective, then don't see this film, but if you are, you will likely experience some painful emotions, but you may well be rewarded with some greater understanding.
This review of United 93 (2006) was written by Mainem. on 22 Oct 2006.
United 93 has generally received very positive reviews.
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