Disney brings the SS Pendleton rescue mission to theaters with The Finest Hours. This true story is considered the US Coast Guard's most daring rescue mission ever. I went in with some brief history on the actual rescue. I've always had this fascination with shipwrecks ever since I was a kid. It was a weird hobby of mine that has somewhat stuck around with me today.
The sea scenes amp up the intensity, and makes up for the rather sloth-like speed when scenes are on land. However, bringing the 1950s to life fascinated me from the start with a diner and bar intro. There is also a cute dance scene before Chris Pine's character, Bernard Webber, goes on the rescue mission. I'm quite sure the old, simplistic way of flirting and bagging a relationship completely in person is definitely portrayed correctly. It just seemed so genuine, especially with Chris Pine and Holliday Grainger having excellent chemistry. Casey Affleck gives a solid performance as a Pendleton crew member. However, I can't believe Ben Foster is in this movie. He is the one actor that I felt could've been used more for his acting ability. Maybe giving him a character stranded on the Pendleton would of made more sense. All of the acting seemed very on point though.
The Finest Hours is a nearly 2-hour film that spends the first quarter establishing a romance. It isn't a bad thing thinking about it afterwards. All of these shipwreck type films explore some sort of sub story before thinkings get wet. I kept thinking just how much more interesting this film would be in black & white. It isn't meant to be a colorful film with snow and storms happening, so presenting a 1950s story in black & white would appeal to me even more. In the end, I say check this film out if your local theater has a discount ticket day. The Finest Hours will make it's way into my Blu-ray collection, so I'll have a follow up on this movie in a few months. :)
