Eddington

 

   

      Written and directed by Ari Aster, this new film is a microcosm of the insanity of 2020 that takes place in one small New Mexico town. Taking place in May of 2020, the Covid-19 pandemic is sweeping the world and masks have become the norm. Eddington residents are torn between the Mayor's mandate to wear masks and the local sheriff's refusal to do so. If that isn't enough, Mr. Aster throws in the murder of George Floyd, "Black Lives Matter", and  several conspiracy theories to add fuel to a growing volatile situation in the small town of Eddington.  

        Joaquin Phoenix stars as the sheriff, Joe Cross and he is terrific. His performance holds the whole story together, even when it starts to go off the rails in the third act. Emma Stone is Joe's wife, Louise, who is emotionally unstable and heavily influenced by her conspiracy theorist mother, Dawn, played by Deirdre O'Connell. Louise becomes involved with Vernon Jefferson Peak, a radical cult leader played by Austin Butler. Pedro Pascal is Ted Garcia, the town mayor running for re-election.

         The film also co-stars Luke Grimes and Micheal Ward as Joe's deputies. Amelie Hoeferle, William Belleau, Matt Gomez, Cameron Mann and a completely unrecognizable Clifton Collins Jr. round out the excellent cast.

         Mr. Aster injects dark humor into the tense drama at odd moments but it works as a release value for the audience, already on edge from the growing confrontation the film is leading up to (but not in the way you might think). It is easy to compare the film to a modern western (Mr. Aster's goal) with the sheriff trying to contain the townsfolk from growing violent due to outside forces.

         The third act erupts into serious violence and gets pretty crazy (which is a common theme in all of Mr. Aster's films). The story is a grim reminder of a time that brought out the worst in many of us and yet it still holds surprises when you least expect it.

Superman

 

        Writer/director James Gunn foregoes the origin story and drops us into the middle of a world that already exists with Superman. This allows him to shape the story without any preexisting notions. And for that reason, we get a Superman we have never quite seen like this before.

         Mr. Gunn refreshes the story by including elements of the comic books, the 1950's TV show and even the older animation stories. He introduces more characters from the D.C. universe in novel ways and gets terrific performances from his cast. He even tackles social issues like immigration and alienation without getting heavy-handed. And while some may not like seeing a Superman getting his butt kicked for most of the film, truth and justice do prevail.

         The film stars David Corenswet as Superman/Clark Kent. Mr. Corenswet borrows elements from Christopher Reeve's Superman as well as the Superman of the more recent comics. However, he does make the character his own with humor and just enough gravitas. Rachel Brosnahan is Lois Lane and she is perfect. Nicholas Hoult plays Lex Luthor and while I had my doubts, he is actually very good as the high-tech villain with a chip on his shoulder. The film also co-stars Nathan Fillion as Guy Gardner/Green Lantern, Edi Gathegi as Mr. Terrific, Anthony Carrigan as Metamorpho, the Element Man (with even a nod to Stagg Industries), and Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl. Together this group make up the "Justice Gang" (name pending) and they deserve their own film, they are that good together. Personally I was excited to see "Metamorpho", one of my favorite DC comic characters.

         Additional co-stars are Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen, Sara Sampano as Eve Teschmacher, Maria Gabriela de Faria as "The Engineer"", Frank Grillo as Rick Flagg Sr., Pruitt Taylor Vince as Pa Kent and Neva Howell as Ma Kent and Wendell Pierce as Perry White. There are also a few cameos which I won't spoil. And of course I can't forget Krypto, the Super dog, who completely steals the film.

         Mr. Gunn's technical team produce some first rate special effects, the score is excellent, even borrowing the theme we all know so well, and Mr. Gunn even throws in some easter eggs for good measure. The film comes in at a trim two hours and never feels bloated. I recommend seeing it in IMAX, if possible, for an optimum experience.

           There is one quick mid credit scene and one post credit scene which are clever but don't provide any clues to the next film. And I'm sure there will be a next film and more as I suspect Mr. Gunn is just getting started.

            

             

Jurassic World: Rebirth

 

          Wow, can you believe this is the fourth installment in the Jurassic World franchise and overall seventh film in the dinosaur franchise? People just can get enough of dinosaurs. Just as the films were starting to disappoint, writer David Koepp (who co-wrote the original film) manages a story that comes closest to the Jurassic Park roots and gives it a fresh jolt in this standalone film.

            Directed by Gareth Edwards, the film does it's best to bring back the magic and excitement of the original film. He clearly is a student of the "Spielberg" school of film making and includes many "easter egg" and nods to the original.

             Scarlett Johansson stars as Zora Bennett, who is asked to lead a team back to the isolated island of dinosaurs to collect samples for a pharmaceutical company, who's corporate shill, played by Rupert Friend, is along for the ride. Also joining her as the dinosaur expert, is Jonathan Bailey and as her "number two'" in the expedition, Mahershala Ali. Co-starring are Manuel Garcia- Rulfo, Luna Blaise, David Iacono and as the requisite child in danger, Audrina Miranda. 

              The film takes a bit too long to get going, having to introduce the characters and their emotional backgrounds. Mr. Koepp wants to make sure we care what happens to these people once they start encountering the various dinosaurs. And encounter they do, as there are many exciting action sequences in the film.

                It is far from perfect however, as there are continuity gaps and plot holes (if you look closely), far too many product placements that are distracting and spotty CGI work at times (clearly a lot of "blue Screen" work was evident). However, when it really counts, the dinosaurs that need to scare do their job and make the film a fun ride. The clear definition of a summer "Popcorn" movie.

F1

 

    

            "F1" stand for Formula 1 and the title couldn't be more apropos. This is a formula film from start to finish. Filmed during the actual racing seasons, the film features many real drivers and race care personal and owners. If you are a racing fan, you will certainly enjoy the film. As for a novice audience, it's enjoyable enough but the repetitive races start to bore after three or four times around the various tracks.

             Brad Pitt stars as Sonny Hayes, the worn-out veteran driver who is talked into one more shot at the title by APXGP racing team, CEO Ruben Cervantes, played by Javier Bardem. He is paired up with a young rookie "phenom", Joshua Pearce, played by Damson Idris. Of course, the two drivers can't stand each other at first but eventually learn to respect and even like each other. The film co-stars Kerry Condon, who plays the APXGP technical director who, of course, falls for Mr. Pitt (I mean who wouldn't. He's in great shape and doesn't seem to age). Also co-starring are Kim Bodnia, Tobias Menzies and Sarah Niles.

             The racing scenes put the viewer right inside the cars, due to the intimate camera placement in and around the cars, although at times, you feel like you're playing a video game. Filmed in various Formula 1 tracks around the world, there is much local spectacle before the start of each race, which is fun to watch.

              There are the inevitable crashes and curves (on and off the track) to keep things exciting, but a true highlight is watching the various pit crews change tires and parts in under three seconds at each pit stop. If you learn anything from this film, it's that Formula 1 is a team sport because no matter how good the driver is, they can't do it without the pit crew to get them to the finish line.

28 Years Later

 

      Continuing the series that most likely influenced TV's "The Walking Dead",  this installment reunites writer Alex Garland and director Danny Boyle who were the creatives behind the original "28 Days Later".

       It may be misleading to call this a traditional horror film, as while there are horror elements, it's more of a human drama with survivors of the "Rage Virus" protecting themselves against "The Infected". Not undead zombies, the infected were once human but have now become something less with no reason and just an instinct to kill and eat the unaffected. Most of them move quickly and attack in groups.

       The opening scene is pretty horrific though, setting the stage for what is to come "28 years later". A group of survivors live on an island off the coast of Britain, accessible only at low tide. On his twelfth birthday, Spike and his father Jamie set out to the mainland for his "first kill". 

        Spike is played by Alfie Williams, and he is the heart and soul of the film. Aaron Taylor-Johnson plays his father, Jamie and Jodie Comer is Isla, his sick mother. The plot drives Spike to take Isla to the mainland in search of a mythical doctor. Co-starring are Ralph Fiennes, Edvin Ryding, Chi Lewis -Parry, Christopher Fulford, and Jack O'Connell.

        The action scenes are very exciting and a visceral thrill but the film is also very emotional and dramatic. Mr. Garland's script holds surprises for the characters and the viewer is easily caught up in their struggle to survive. Mr. Boyle hasn't lost his touch and has lots of fun speeding up and then momentarily freezing certain scenes.

       The first of three planned films, the first sequel is expected in January of 2026. One of the executive producers of this film is Cillian Murphy, who appeared in the first film and is rumored to be part of the next installment in some capacity.

         I look forward to the next chapter and hope they can make it as good as this one.

The Life of Chuck

 

        Based on a short story by Stephen King and written and directed by Mike Flanagan, this is absolutely no horror story. Rather, it is remarkable story of an average person, beautifully told by Mr. Flanagan.

        The film is told in three acts and starts in reverse. While it may take a moment to understand what is happening and where the story is going, it does all come together in an endearing way. Telling the story in reverse makes perfect sense and once it ends, you'll be thinking about it for quite a while.

         Adult Chuck is played by Tom Hiddleston, who as it turns out is a terrific dancer.  He has a wonderful dance sequence with Annalise Basso, after he begins to move to the rhythms of a young street drummer, played by Taylor Gordon. 

          The real revelation, however, is Benjamin Pajak as the eleven year old Chuck.  He's an adorable young actor, mature beyond his years and a terrific dancer himself. Chuck is also played by Cody Flanagan as a seven year old and Jacob Tremblay plays Chuck as a seventeen year old. Mr. Tremblay has grown into a fine young actor after his breakout performance in "Room" back in 2015.The film also co-stars Chiwetel Ejiofor,  Mark Hamill, Mia Sara (great to see her on screen again), Karen Gillan,  Carl  Lumbly, and Nick Offerman as the narrator.

           An unconventional film, it will sneak up on you and you will appreciate the power of it's ultimately life affirming story.

             

The Phoenician Scheme

 

        The latest film from writer/director Wes Anderson is jammed packed with famous actors in cameo roles. This is not unusual as actors love to work with Mr. Anderson and many of them have appeared in his films before.

         Benicio del Toro stars as Anatole "Zsa-Zsa" Korda, a wealthy and ruthless businessman Who plans his biggest venture yet, the "Phoenician Scheme".  The complicated scheme is presented to his daughter Liesi, played by Mia Threapleton, as a device to also explain the scheme to the audience.  During the course of the film,  Korda and his daughter (who's about to become a nun) meet the various characters who can help carry our Korda's plans.

           The film co-stars Michael Cera and Rupert Friend and in various cameos, Riz Amed, Tom Hanks, Bryan Cranston, Mathieu Amalric, Richard Ayoade, Jeffrey Wright, Scalett Johansson, Benedict Cumberbatch, Hope Davis, Bill Murray, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Willem Dafoe, F. Murray Abraham, and Stephen Park.

            There are many funny sequences and very witty dialog, which you would come to expect from Mr. Anderson. What is also true of a Wes Anderson film is the wonderful art direction and this film is no exception. The film and it's set pieces are literal works of art. It is a beautiful film to watch, even if you're having trouble following the plot.

           While not the best film in the Anderson canon, fans will absolutely enjoy themselves.

         

Ballerina

 

        Set in the John Wick universe, this action thriller takes place around the same time as "John Wick: Chapter Three" and revolves around another assassin trained by the Ruska Roma. The "Ballerina" of the titles is Eve Macarro played by Ana de Armas.

         As a little girl, Eve watches as her father is killed by another set of assassins, led by "The Chancellor", played by Gabriel Bryne. Orphaned, Winston Scott (Ian McShane), brings her to the Ruska Roma where she is trained by "the Director", (Angelica Huston) both as a dancer and assassin. As the years pass, Eve is now an adult and seeking revenge against "The chancellor" for the death of her father.

         The action is fast and furious, once the film kicks into high gear. The fight sequences are at times, very inventive and always amazing. Ms. de Armas is up for the challenge, using whatever she can for a weapon and fighting with above par martial arts.

         The film also ca-stars Norman Reedus, Catalina Sandino Moreno, Sharon Duncan-Brewster, and in his last role before his untimely death, a cameo by Lance Reddick as Charon. Fans of John Wick will be certainly pleased (and this comes as no surprise) that Keanu Reeves does make a more than just a cameo as John Wick himself.

          This is an exciting film with a violent and high body count. It lacks the gravitas that Mr. Reeves brings to his own "Wick" films but the fans of this franchise will still have a good time.

Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning

 

     The eighth and final chapter (but you never know) in the Mission Impossible franchise. This is part two to the previous film, "Dead Reckoning". No need to rewatch that film to enjoy this one as there are countless flashbacks (including scenes from all seven previous films) and endless exposition of the film's plot.

       Of course Tom Cruise is back as Ethan Hunt (a part he has played now for thirty years). Co-starring are Hayley Atwell, Ving Rhames, Simon Pegg, Esai Morales, Pom Klementieff, Henry Czerny, Angela Bassett, Holt McCallany, Janet McTeer, Nick Offerman, Hannah Waddingham, Tramell Tillman, Greg Tarzan Davis, and Shea Whigham.

       The film is an exciting two hour action adventure wrapped in a bloated, repetitive additional forty nine minutes. There is also a lack of humor as the film takes it's plot very seriously filled with pretension. Over and over again, we hear how only Ethan Hunt can save the world and how much we must trust him. By this time, Ethan Hunt has risen to God-like stature, even dying and being reborn.

       Despite all this, the action sequences are spectacular, especially seen in an IMAX theater. Credit Mr. Cruise, who likes to do his own stunts and Christopher McQuarrie, the director and co-writer (along with Erik Jendresen) for giving the franchise a sentimental and a crowd pleasing sendoff.

Final Destination: Bloodlines

 

       Whether we admit it or not, we all have a certain fascination with death.  For that reason, this has been a highly successful franchise leading into this, it's sixth film.

        After a spectacular opening sequence, we are introduced to Stephani Reyes played by Kaitlyn Santa Juana, a young woman who has seemingly inherited her grandmother's ability to see premonitions of death. The entire cast is predominately unknown actors and just about all of them are just fodder to die in ingenious, original and ghastly ways. In his last film, horror film star, Tony Todd has a welcome cameo.

        Audiences don't flock to this franchise to see stars or even expect coherent storytelling. They come for the grisly set pieces that make even everyday items deadly. The family subplot does add some depth to the story, but the clever and twisted ways death claims victims are what will appeal to fans and they will not be disappointed.

  

The Shrouds

 

   Never one to disappoint, writer/director David Cronenberg returns with a new twisted drama, apparently to help him grieve over the death of his own wife, who died in 2017.

    Vincent Cassel (looking very much like Mr. Cronenberg himself, sans glasses) stars as Karsh, who has created a company around his invention "GraveTech".  The company employs high tech "shrouds" that are placed around a corpse when buried so that a person can actually view the body as it decomposes in a grave. Karsh has developed this technology initially to keep himself close to his deceased wife, Becca. 

    The film co-stars Diane Kruger as Becca, her twin sister, Terry and the voice of Karsh's AI assistant, "Hunny". Ms. Kruger gives a daring and raw performance , especially as Becca. Also co-starring is Guy Pearce as Maury, a tech nerd and Karsh's brother-in-law, who helped develop the technology, and Sandrine Holt as Soo-Min Szabo, the blind wife of a CEO who wants to sponsor a "GraveTech" in Budapest.

    While not a horror film per se, there are scenes of body horror and amputation (this is a Cronenberg film, after all) and combined with multiple sex scenes and a bizarre story in general, this will not appeal to a wide audience but fans of Mr. Cronenberg will appreciate his storytelling and directing skills.

    The film is in English (despite the poster). 

 

Thunderbolts*

 

            Marvel reboots their superhero franchise by recruiting many characters from their other films and TV shows to create a new dynamic for the next phase of their superhero collective.

            It's a terrific script by Eric Pearson and Johanna Calo, based on a story by Eric Pearson. It has plenty of action and humor and grounds its characters in a cohesive story that works much better than the last few Marvel films.

            The film stars Florence Pugh as Yelena, Sebastian Stan as Bucky Barnes, Wyatt Russell as John Walker, Hannah John-Kamen as Ghost,  Julia louis-Dreyfus as Valentina de Fontaine, David Harbour as Alexei, and Lewis Pullman as Bob. The film also features Geraldine Viswanathan, Chris Bauer, Olga Kurylenko, and Wendell Pierce.

             The lead actors make excellent anti-heroes and a reluctant team. They have great chemistry together and appear to be really enjoying themselves. Ms. Pugh is clearly the lead with most of the attention placed on her character, Yelena. She is more than up to the task.

              Self-described characters without any true super powers (except maybe enhanced strength), they "punch and shoot" their way through the film without the need for excessive CGI. The special effects that are necessary blend seamlessly into the action. There are some serious psychological elements introduced in the film that provide background and insight but don't overwhelm the action and humor. The story successfully sets up the next phase of the Marvel universe and definitely explains the asterisk in the film's title.

               Stay for the mid-credit scene that is fun and a post credit scene that actually adds something to the story (although with a shameless plug).

The Accountant 2

 

      Capitalizing on the success of the first film, director Gavin O'Conner and writer Bill Dubuque have returned along with star Ben Affleck to double down on the comedy and action.

      Mr. Affleck returns as Christian Wolff and is joined once again by Jon Bernthal as his brother Braxton. Mr. Bernthal's role increases the chemistry between Mr. Affleck and himself. The two create more comedic moments as well as more mayhem than in the original film.

      Also returning in increased roles are Cynthia Addai-Robinson as Federal agent Marybeth Medina. and as Justine, Christian's hacker, Allison Robertson takes over the role but with the voice of the original Justine, Allison Wright. Daniella Pineda is new to the cast in a mysterious role and J.K. Simmons has a cameo reprising his role as Raymond King.

      The plot is a bit convoluted but it doesn't matter. It's just a device to enjoy watching Mr. Affleck and Mr. Bernthal save the day, which they do after many bullets fly and time out for line dancing (don't ask).

        

Sinners

 

     The latest film from writer/director Ryan Coogler is an interesting mix of genres. What starts out as a period piece drama descends midway through into a visceral horror story. This jarring switch midstream may put off some viewers and while it makes no sense, still makes for an exciting film.

     Mr. Coogler's frequent collaborator, Michael B. Jordon stars as twin brothers, nicknamed "Smoke" and "Stack". Their scenes together are flawlessly integrated. He is terrific as both characters, who come home to the Mississippi Delta in 1932,  flush with stolen cash from gangsters in Chicago, in order to open a "juke joint".

      The film co-stars Hailee Steinfeld (in a role she really sinks her teeth into), Jack O'Connell ( a terrific actor in a truly bizarre role), Wunmi Mosaku, Jayme Lawson, Omar Miller, a terrific Delroy Lindo and Miles Caton as Sammie, the younger cousin of the twins, who is an excellent blues singer and guitar player.

      Production design on the film is excellent and along with the period costumes and terrific original music, there is an air of perfect authenticity, at least until things go off the rails.

      There are lots of great musical styles represented in the film, highlighted by a wonderfully magical musical number during the party at the "juke joint".

       One criticism I have regards a racially motivated incident towards the very end, that while exciting, didn't ring true to me in it's execution. True to the times, I think it would have taken place differently. Aside from that, the film, while eventually gonzo, is fun and exciting.

       I would love to see a prequel with the twins in Chicago and just how they came about their stolen cash. I think that story has lots of potential. And as a final note, stay during the credits for a mid credit scene featuring a great cameo and also a quick scene at the very end.

Warfare

 

      A very different kind of war film, "Warfare" takes you into a reenactment of an actual confrontation during the Iraq War. It is about as close as you can get in a firefight without tasting the blood, sweat and smell of the ammunition..

      Written and directed by Alex Garland and former Navy Seal, Ray Mendoza, the film is scripted entirely on the memories of the men who lived through the battle of Ramadi. It is shot in real time and is about as intense as it gets in ninety five minutes. 

       The film stars D'Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai (of Hulu's Reservation Dogs) as Ray Mendoza, Cosmo Jarvis (of Hulu's Shogun) as Elliott Miller. Also starring are Will Poulter, Charles Melton, Joseph Quinn, Kit Conner, Finn Bennett, Taylor John Smith, and Michael Gandolfini. The entire cast honor the men they are portraying.

      Watching the film unfold, you experience the primal terror of the battle from the boredom before it starts until the very last shot is fired. You won't even realize you've been holding your breath the entire time.

        

The Amateur

 

            Suspend your belief and you'll enjoy this perfectly serviceable espionage/revenge thriller. It follows a standard formula but Rami Malek, who stars as Charlie Heller brings the conviction of an amateur field agent and is fun to watch as he tracks down the men responsible for killing his wife.

            The film co-stars Rachel Brosnahan, Laurence Fishburne, Holt McCallary, Caitriona Balfe,  Julianne Nicholson, Danny Sapani, Jon Bernthal, and Michael Stuhlbarg as various friends and foes.

             Since Charlie must go global to track down the killers, we are treated to a world tour of countries and cities, including England, Spain, Turkey, Romania, and France. There is also quite a bit of technobabble since Charlie is first and foremost an analyst so a good part of the film is played out on computer and video screens. There are, however, enough action sequences to satisfy the viewer.

              The door is left open for a sequel, but of course, by the end of the film, Charlie is certainly no longer an amateur.

              

Drop

 

       A modern take on a very common premise. The hero/heroine is forced to do something terrible by the villain, who is holding a loved one hostage. We've seen this story many times before but never using cell phone drops to communicate with the hero/heroine.

        Meghann Fahy is the heroine, Violet, faced with an impossible situation. She aptly proves herself leading lady material as she continues to find clever ways to stall and distract her opponent. 

         Violet is on a first date at a upscale  restaurant high above a Chicago skyscraper. Her date, Henry, is played by Brandon Sklenar (of the streamer, 1923). Most of the action plays out in the restaurant with occasional scenes of Violet's home, where her young son Toby (played by Jacob Robinson) and his sitter, Jen (played by Violett Beane) are being threatened by the main villain's accomplice. Jen is also Violet's sister adding to her anxiety over the situation.

         What makes the film fun is the villain could be anyone in the restaurant and poor Henry doesn't understand Violet's increasingly erratic behavior with each phone drop she receives.

          Both Ms. Fahy and Mr. Sklenar take everything very seriously and make a handsome couple to watch. While the dialog may be silly and contrived, the situation does continuously rachet up the tension. Alfred Hitchcock would be proud.

Black Bag

 

       This new film from director Steven Soderbergh and writer David Koepp is an ice cold, old fashioned spy vs. spy story. Relying more on a byzantine script rather than car chases, shoot outs and explosions, this smart story telling wants you to pay close attention to the machinations going on inside a British intelligence agency, where whispers of a traitor to the wrong person set the wheels in motion.

      Michael Fassbender stars as George Woodhouse, a fastidious spy who "can't stand liars". Cate Blanchett is Kathryn, his wife, and a spy at the same agency. The film co-stars Marisa Abela, Tom Burke, Naomie Harris, Rege-Jean Page and Pierce Brosnan. Mr. Fassbender is perfectly cast as George playing mind games with his fellow spies to find the traitor in the organization. 

      Mr. Soderbergh keeps a quick pace moving the story along at a crisp ninety three minutes. The sets and wardrobe are impeccable. The whole film is sleek in design. The story is a war of words, full of dry wit and some terrific one-liners, played out over an ever increasing tense week's time.

       For those that may find it confusing, the plot comes together in the third act and has a very satisfying ending. It's a smart, even sexy, throwback that fans of John le Carre or Len Deighton will appreciate.

Mickey 17

 

      Written and directed by Bong Joon Ho, this new science fiction film is also a very clever black comedy. As he did with "Parasite", Mr. Ho brings his brand of social satire to the science fiction genre he has had success with in the past.

       The film stars Robert Pattinson as Mickey Barnes, a fairly simple man who signs up for a space voyage to escape a loan shark. He becomes an "expendable" without reading the fine print and finds himself in dangerous situations that continuously kill him, only to find himself repeatedly cloned to start all over again.

        Co-starring are Steven Yuen as Timo, Mickey's friend, Naomie Ackie as Nasha, Mark Ruffalo as Kenneth Marshall ( a not so subtle Donald Trump like character), and Tomi Collette as Yifa Marshall, his wife.

         The story is a lot of fun with plenty of social commentary behind the humor. Mr. Pattinson is simply terrific in a role against type and Mr. Ruffalo almost steals the film as the buffoon leader looking to colonize a planet of bizarre creatures. 

         Based on a book by Edward Aston (Mickey 7), the film is one wildly original ride.

Last Breath

 

           This is the miraculous true story of a deep sea diver's rescue, when his lifeline snaps during a maintenance dive. The film is based on the documentary of the same name that chronicled the actual rescue. 

           200,00 cables crisscross the ocean floor These cables periodically need repair and the divers that do the work consider it to be one of the most dangerous jobs one can have. This particular story is about three divers in the North Sea, who are plunged into darkness when a topside computer glitch causes havoc with their ship's systems. While all three start out 300 feet down in a diving bell, one of them becomes separated and is quickly running out of air. The entire film is based on the rescue attempt.

           The three divers are played by Woody Harrelson, who stays in the diving bell feeding the lifelines to divers David Yuasa, played by Simu Liu and diver Chris Lemons, played by Finn Cole. It is Mr. Lemons who becomes cut off from the other two and is in the most peril.  The film also co-stars Cliff Curtis and Mark Bonnar.

           There are many very tense moments and actual footage from the documentary are cut into the film providing real context. It's a quick 90 minute film but it will probably have you holding your own breath for the last 45 minutes..