Sully (2016) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Introduction
In 2016, director Clint Eastwood brought to the silver screen the compelling true story of Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger, the man behind the “Miracle on the Hudson.” Starring Tom Hanks in the titular role, Sully (2016) captures the harrowing moments of US Airways Flight 1549 and the subsequent investigation that tested Sullenberger’s career and character. This review delves into the movie’s narrative, performances, and direction while guiding you on where to watch this film online in 2024.
Plot Overview
On January 15, 2009, Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger and First Officer Jeff Skiles (played by Aaron Eckhart) took off from LaGuardia Airport on what seemed like a routine flight. However, just three minutes after takeoff, disaster struck as the plane collided with a flock of geese, leading to a complete engine failure. With no time to reach a nearby airport, Sully made the split-second decision to land the plane on the Hudson River, saving all 155 lives on board.
Sully goes beyond the miraculous landing, exploring the intense scrutiny and investigation that followed. The film reveals how Sully’s decision was questioned by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), who believed he could have made it back to the airport. The movie expertly captures the emotional toll this ordeal took on Sully and how he navigated the pressures of public and professional judgment.
Performance & Direction
Tom Hanks delivers a masterful performance as Sully, embodying the calm demeanor and quiet strength of the real-life hero. Hanks’ portrayal is nuanced, capturing both Sully’s professional resolve and the emotional strain of being in the spotlight. Aaron Eckhart complements Hanks with a solid performance as First Officer Jeff Skiles, providing the perfect balance of support and camaraderie.
Clint Eastwood’s direction is both restrained and powerful, allowing the story to unfold in a way that is both dramatic and respectful of the real events. Eastwood avoids unnecessary melodrama, instead focusing on the human elements of the story. The film’s pacing is tight, and the use of flashbacks effectively builds tension, making the audience experience the harrowing moments of the flight and the subsequent investigation.
Cinematography & Sound
The cinematography by Tom Stern is another highlight of the film. The scenes of the plane gliding over the Hudson River are breathtakingly shot, providing a visceral sense of the danger and urgency of the situation. The sound design is equally impressive, especially during the flight sequences, where the roar of the engines and the chaos in the cockpit immerse the audience in the experience.
Critical Reception
Sully received widespread acclaim from both critics and audiences. It holds an impressive rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics praising the film’s tension, Hanks’ performance, and Eastwood’s direction. The movie was also a commercial success, grossing over $240 million worldwide. It serves as a testament to Sully’s heroism and the power of human instinct under pressure.
Where to Watch Sully (2016) Online in 2024
For viewers in the United States, Sully (2016) is available on multiple streaming platforms, both for subscription and rental/purchase.
- HBO Max: Sully is currently available for streaming on HBO Max, making it accessible to subscribers of this popular platform. With HBO Max’s extensive library, viewers can also explore other acclaimed films by Clint Eastwood and Tom Hanks.
- Amazon Prime Video: Sully can be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video. Renting is a cost-effective option for those who wish to watch the film once, while purchasing allows for unlimited rewatching. Amazon often provides HD and 4K options for purchase, ensuring a high-quality viewing experience.
- Apple TV: Apple TV offers Sully for both rent and purchase. The platform’s seamless integration with Apple devices makes it a convenient choice for those in the Apple ecosystem. Similar to Amazon, Apple TV offers the movie in various resolutions, catering to different preferences.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Another option for renting or purchasing Sully is Google Play Movies & TV. This platform is accessible across multiple devices, including Android phones, smart TVs, and web browsers, providing flexibility in how you choose to watch the film.
- Vudu: Vudu offers Sully for rent or purchase, often at competitive prices. The platform is known for its frequent discounts and bundle deals, making it a great option for movie enthusiasts looking to add Sully to their digital collection.
Conclusion
Sully (2016) is a gripping, well-crafted film that honors the real-life heroics of Captain Chesley Sullenberger. With standout performances from Tom Hanks and Aaron Eckhart, and the deft direction of Clint Eastwood, the movie is a must-watch for anyone interested in true stories of courage and leadership. Whether you prefer to stream or purchase, there are plenty of options available to watch Sully online in 2024. Don’t miss out on this cinematic experience that continues to resonate with audiences nearly a decade after its release.
