Sully

20161h 36m Directed by Clint Eastwood
7.2
(7520 votes)
DramaHistory

Overview

On 15 January 2009, the world witnessed the 'Miracle on the Hudson' when Captain 'Sully' Sullenberger glided his disabled plane onto the Hudson River, saving the lives of all 155 souls aboard. However, even as Sully was being heralded by the public and the media for his unprecedented feat of aviation skill, an investigation was unfolding that threatened to destroy his reputation and career.

Sully

A Hero's Turbulent Descent: Unpacking the Drama of "Sully"

Noura Haddad
Noura HaddadDec 19, 2025
The 2016 film "Sully" is a gripping drama that delves into the aftermath of the Miracle on the Hudson, where Captain Chesley Sullenberger successfully landed a commercial airliner on the Hudson River, saving the lives of all 155 people on board. Directed by Clint Eastwood, the movie takes a closer look at the investigation that followed this heroic act, and the scrutiny that Sully faced from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). The film is a thought-provoking exploration of the human psyche, as it raises questions about the nature of heroism, the fallibility of human judgment, and the consequences of split-second decisions.

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The movie boasts impressive performances from its cast, with Tom Hanks delivering a nuanced and understated portrayal of Sully. Hanks brings a sense of quiet dignity and introspection to the role, capturing the essence of a man who is both humble and confident in his abilities. The supporting cast, including Aaron Eckhart and Laura Linney, add depth and complexity to the story, highlighting the personal and professional struggles that Sully faces in the wake of the Miracle on the Hudson. The film's cinematography is also noteworthy, with stunning recreations of the crash and its aftermath that are both intense and realistic.

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One of the standout aspects of "Sully" is its thoughtful pacing and direction. Eastwood's measured approach allows the story to unfold at a leisurely pace, building tension and suspense as the investigation into the crash gains momentum. The film's themes of heroism, duty, and the human condition are timely and thought-provoking, and Eastwood's direction brings a sense of gravity and importance to the story. However, some viewers may find the film's portrayal of the NTSB investigation to be overly simplistic or biased, and the movie's resolution may feel a bit rushed or convenient. Despite these minor quibbles, "Sully" remains a compelling and engaging drama that is well worth watching, particularly for fans of historical dramas or those interested in the Miracle on the Hudson. Overall, the film is a testament to the power of human ingenuity and the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of overwhelming opposition.

CAST

Tom Hanks
Tom Hanks
Chesley 'Sully' Sullenberger
Aaron Eckhart
Aaron Eckhart
Jeff Skiles
Anna Gunn
Anna Gunn
Elizabeth Davis
Holt McCallany
Holt McCallany
Mike Cleary
Mike O'Malley
Mike O'Malley
Charles Porter
Jamey Sheridan
Jamey Sheridan
Ben Edwards
Valerie Mahaffey
Valerie Mahaffey
Diane Higgins
Delphi Harrington
Delphi Harrington
Lucille Palmer
Ahmed Lucan
Ahmed Lucan
Egyptian Driver
Laura Linney
Laura Linney
Lorrie Sullenberger

Trailer

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