Captain Phillips (2013) is an epic biopic of a frightening story of pirates. No, I don't mean with peg legs in the 1700s but modern-day or precisely 2009. No major spoilers will follow because it's worth the watch. This is the story of Richard Phillips...
Captain Phillips commands a container ship traveling around the Horn of Africa. Somali pirates target the ship kidnapping Phillips resulting in an ensuing stand-off.
Tom Hanks does what he does and gives an exceptional performance as our protagonist. I say that all the time about Hanks, but this particular presentation ranks among the best of his. He tries to be a stable leader for his crew in a time of peril. Also, we know Hanks has an extensive emotional acting range which is used in a special scene. Back on the crew, these actors do sufficient work committing to their performances.
As great as Hanks is, a previously unknown actor steals the show. Barkhad Abdi is the Somali pirate captain known as Muse. There are times in the movie you forget he's an actor because of the authenticity. This movie changed his life, and he was nominated for an Oscar. Don't forget the now-famous line "Look at me. I am the captain now."
Now it's time for a tangent. Abdi needs a new acting agent. The only noteworthy roles he's obtained since Captain Phillips release in 2013 is Castle Rock and Blade Runner 2049. The former is a semi-popular Hulu original while his role in the arthouse blockbuster movie didn't extend beyond one scene. He's too talented not to do more.
This movie isn't about exploring deep inner thoughts on mankind. It's fairly straightforward in its story, and that's all it has to be.
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