Phantom (2013) [Movie Review]

This film is the biggest surprise so far for me this year. "Inspired by actual events" is a line I hate on film posters, but I can look past it for this one. Phantom is about the ship that almost started a war, and the crew that had no idea. We get a great opening of Captain Demi (Ed Harris) receiving orders to set sail, despite the crews promised vacation. Demi isn't given his orders, but he slowly realizes the situation, and must do what he can. All leading up to a tragically amazing ending.

The film has so many strong points, it's a shame it has such a limited release. My only grips with the movie were the fact that the Captain's took time explaining too many things that they would have already had knowledge of. It made the film seem less real, sure it gave the audience an explanation, but realism was shot out the window with it. My only other major concern was that the character were Russian, but the actors playing them were American/British. It's understandable, seeing as how this is an American film, but I found that the casting choices lowered the films quality a bit. Don't get me wrong, everyone acted their parts beautifully, it was just a bit odd. But other than those two things, we get great acting, surprisingly beautiful camera shots, and just an all-around good film. If you get a chance, I recommend seeing this film.

Rating: 7/10

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Discussion topic: Would you risk your life/safety so that other people, that you don't know, could live a better, happier life?

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