Captain Phillips

In Captain Phillips, Tom Hanks plays the title character, Captain Rich Phillips. Captain Phillips and his new crew on the Maersk Alabama embark on a mission around the horn of Africa to deliver food and supplies for the starving. We're also introduced to a band of Somali pirates who are looking to score a big payday by robbing a ship. The pirates set out on crude skiffs and spot the Alabama. As they approach, the crew begins to prepare for the worst, and Captain Phillips has a few tricks up his sleeve. The pirates board the Alabama, leaving the ship's fate in doubt.

Overall, Captain Phillips is a choppy ride, and I mean that in the best way. The camera work is very choppy throughout the film, which adds to the suspense and sense of chaos, especially when the pirates board the ship. This is Hanks' best performance in a long time, and his character's relationship with the pirates is an interesting one. I did feel the film grew just a little tedious in the middle. The last few minutes of the film definitely rewards the patience, however, and I do highly recommend the film.