Sully

Official Synopsis:

“On January 15, 2009, Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger (Tom Hanks) and his copilot (Aaron Eckhart) begin a routine flight that turns terrifying. Sully pulls off the impossible and glides his disabled plane onto the frigid waters of the Hudson River, saving the lives of all 155 aboard. Even though he’s heralded for his unprecedented feat of aviation skill, an all-out investigation threatens to destroy Sully’s reputation and career.”

Seven years ago, the Miracle on the Hudson filled the news with the heroic story of Captain “Sully” Sullenberger and his flight team that successfully landed a plane in the Hudson River after a catastrophic collision with a flock of birds took out both of the engines. For weeks, we heard about aerodynamics, airplane mechanics, and even from bird experts discussing bird strikes and their effects on airplanes. What wasn’t covered in the aftermath was the doubt that began to form regarding Sully’s decision to land the airplane in the water, potentially endangering 155 lives without cause.

This film isn’t just about the 208 seconds it took for the plane to safely hit the water, it’s about how it changed the lives of everyone involved, none more so than Sully. Faced with the doubts from his own company and experts telling him that he could have safely made it back to the airport in time, he wrestles with these thoughts, second guessing those crucial decisions he made.

For a film about a true story still fresh in the minds of the world where everyone knows the outcome, there is a certain lack of excitement going into it, for me at least. What could there be to tell that wasn’t shown for weeks after? The focus of the film is about something deeper, and is able to connect with people on an entirely other level. It’s not just a recreation of the events that unfolded that day, there’s so much more to it, and that is what makes it an unprecedented tale that had to be told.

The Miracle on the Hudson and the story of Sully was a story of hope that America desperately needed given the climate of the times. It is a testament to everyone involved that came together ensure every life was saved that day. This tale is translated very well into this film, which renews the hope and pride that when things are at their worst, people do come together to help out their fellow man.

Video

Sully is presented in High Definition Widescreen 1080p 2.4:1. This is a beautiful transfer with no defects or problems of note. Color levels are well balanced, and with the presence of a lot of darker scenes, lighting is utilized wonderfully to give us some great shots.

Audio

The audio is presented in both Dolby Atmos and Dolby Digital 5.1. Reviewed in 5.1, audio levels are on point here. The majority of the scenes are presented as dialogue through the center channel, however, scenes involved the airplane sound terrific, with some powerful sound pumping through the surrounds.

Special Features

There are some great extras on this disc, with in depth interviews from the flight crew and those involved, and with the actors themselves, including Clint Eastwood.

• Sully Sullenberger: The Man Behind the Miracle
• Moment By Moment: Averting Disaster on the Hudson
• Neck Depp in the Hudson: Shooting Sully

Although you think you may know the story already, there is so much more to it that makes this an enjoyable film. With some amazing performances and great direction involving such a heroic tale, Sully is sure to entertain.