Sully (2016) is a biographical drama film directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Tom Hanks as Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger, the pilot who famously landed US Airways Flight 1549 on the Hudson River in January 2009, after both engines failed. The film dramatizes the event, focusing on Sully’s actions and the aftermath, including the investigations and scrutiny he faced in the media and from the aviation authorities.
The story revolves around the real-life emergency landing of Flight 1549, which took off from LaGuardia Airport in New York City. Shortly after takeoff, the plane struck a flock of geese, causing both engines to fail. With no viable options for reaching an airport, Captain Chesley Sullenberger, with the help of First Officer Jeffrey Skiles (played by Aaron Eckhart), made the heroic decision to land the aircraft in the Hudson River, saving all 155 passengers and crew members aboard.
The film also delves into the aftermath, focusing on the investigation conducted by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), which initially questioned whether Sully had made the right decision in opting for an emergency water landing rather than attempting to return to an airport. The narrative unfolds as Sully, the NTSB investigators, and the media all examine the incident, highlighting Sully’s experience, his leadership, and the public pressure he faced in the wake of his heroics.
Sully was widely praised for its performances, especially that of Tom Hanks. Critics noted the filmโs humanistic portrayal of Sully, focusing on his emotional journey rather than just the dramatic action. Eastwoodโs direction and the attention to detail in recreating the landing also received positive reviews. The film was considered a respectful and compelling retelling of a real-life heroism story.
However, some critics noted that the film could have gone deeper into the complexities of the investigation, while others felt the filmโs pacing slowed down during the procedural parts. Nevertheless, it was largely praised as an engaging and well-crafted tribute to Sullyโs actions and the impact of the incident.
Sully (2016) is a gripping, well-acted film that not only highlights the heroic emergency landing of US Airways Flight 1549 but also delves into the emotional and psychological strain that comes with being thrust into the spotlight. Clint Eastwoodโs direction and Tom Hanksโ performance elevate the film, making it both an engaging thriller and a poignant human drama. The film is a respectful portrayal of one of modern aviation’s most remarkable events and the man who made it possible.