Review of Unstoppable (2010) by William K — 29 Dec 2011

This is just what Tony Scott is capable of doing when directing movies!

Unstoppable is the most recent film from the hard-nosed director, Tony Scott. This pulse pounding, thrill a minute suspense ride is Tony Scott's best film in many years. It is his best work since Man on Fire in my opinion and reminded me just how good his movies can be, such as his absolute masterpiece, True Romance. It loosely tells the true story of about a runaway train carrying a cargo of toxic chemicals and the incredible bravery that two men took in order to stop it. Denzel Washington coasts very comfortably into another strong performance as a widowed train engineer who is forced into early retirement after 28 years with his employer. Chris Pine is a perfect complement to Washington as a hot headed, first day conductor who has recently been separated from his wife and child. The profound experience of Washington coupled with the up and coming greatness of Pine's acting work wonders on the screen together and make for the perfect heroes in this story. Rosario Dawson is also terrific as the yardmaster that has to stay coolheaded throughout being the voice of reason between bottom-line corporate guys and the Washington, Pine duo.

This fantastic action thriller demands nonstop attention, and will have you almost falling off the edge of your seat multiple times. The incredible ride will keep you extremely intrigued and glued right up until the very satisfying and a bit too cliche conclusion. Regardless, this movie delivers on all cylinders and keeps your blood pumping almost as fast as the train itself. Unstoppable is one of the best movies of 2010, and although it was not good enough to make my top 10 list, it is most definitely right on the bubble.