'Captain Phillips' Passes the Test

MOVIE REVIEW
Passionate Acting Brings Moral Lessons to Life
By CATHERINE G.

Of the two captains in the Hollywood production of Captain Phillips, only one could be victorious. The film realistically showed the tension and conflict between Captain Phillips, a family man, and Muse, the poor pirate captain who could not return home empty handed.

While American ATM Maersk Alabama slowly chugs off the shores of Somalia, pirates with a violent thirst for money prepare to board. Once on the ship they reap havoc that stops only when the crew of the Alabama captures the pirate captain Muse. The crew makes a bargain with the other pirates who are holding Captain Phillips, the captain of the Alabama, captive.This negotiation results in the pirates boarding a safety boat with Captain Phillips as their hostage. The American navy is called, and with the help of SEALs, Captain Phillips is rescued from the hands of the pirates, but at a terrible price.

Due to the heart wrenching music, prolonged suspense and terrific acting, Captain Phillips engagingly told the real life story of how greed can consume and destroy lives. The magnificent scenery and powerful actors made this film unforgettable.

Captain Phillips (Tom Hanks) energetically and passionately played the troubled family man whose problems had just become a thousand times worse. As the tension and plot thickened, his expressions intensified, drawing the audience into the gripping story. Muse (Barkhad Abdi) on the other hand, is a calm and cool pirate who constantly assured Phillips that everything will be alright. Abdi excelled, even though it was his first acting experience.

Along with Muse, Bial (Barkhad Abdirahman), Najee (Faysal Ahmed) and Elmi (Mahat M Ali) boarded the Alabama. This inseparable quartet showed how poverty and desperation turn good fishermen into pirates. They put on a gripping performance which redeemed the momentary lull  in the middle of the film.

Picturesque scenery and resplendent views of the ocean really perfected Captain Phillips along with sublime music added at opportune moments. The landscapes provided a momentary break in the tension while the music enhanced it.

Captain Phillips is a film worth seeing as it is a thrilling story that dramatizes how poverty can turn even the best into violent and desperate people.