Another inspired portrayal by Hanks

Film review: Captain Phillips

MANILA, Philippines - Fourth quarter Hollywood releases are traditionally about getting noticed by “Oscar” for Academy Awards consideration, and perennial favorite Tom Hanks checks in with Captain Phillips, directed by Paul Greengrass of Bourne films fame.

Based on a 2009 seafaring incident off the Somali Coast that involved the Maersk Alabama cargo ship being overrun by local sea pirates, the film has been a subject of dispute by some of the actual crew members for the accuracy of its depiction of Capt. Rich Phillips’ heroism. But putting accuracy aside, Greengrass once again shows his talent for creating and sustaining suspense from the barest of incidents; and Hanks comes through with flying colors for his inspired portrayal.

Sailing along the African coast, American skipper Phillips, is on a commercial vessel that isn’t equipped with arms of any kind, yet trawling waters noted to be rife with sea pirates — desperate fishermen who have lost their means of livelihood and resort to high-sea piracy as dictated by local warlords and elders. Structure of the film is heightened by also showing us life in these coastal African villages, and how the crews of these pirate expeditions are recruited. Drills on what to do when confronted by said pirates are also chronicled, adding to the tension of possibilities. Of note here is how first-time actor, Barkhad Abdi, portrays one of the heads of these pirate crews. Depth and texture are ably provided, as there are moments that turn this portrayal into a sympathetic one — he isn’t some one-dimensional bad guy, and while never right to have resorted to piracy, one does feel for how desperation may have driven him to the situation he finds himself in, how not that many options are open to these villagers.

Without giving too much of the plot away, it’s in the last 10 minutes of the film that Hanks creates magic with his acting. On the Navy ship, the confusion, shock and physical exhaustion cause his mind to turn blank, and it’s written all over his face. And as mentioned, an effective counterpoint to this is the more than impressive acting debut of Abdi as Muse, the head pirate that boards the Alabama. His moments of false bravado and bluster, his undying belief that somehow he will come on top, all make for strong storytelling.

Some tighter editing may have helped the film, but all in all, the “wait and sea” is fully rewarded.