In January 2009, Capt. Chesley Sullenberger of U.S. Airways was forced to land his plane on the Hudson River because of a dual engine failure. All 155 people on board survived. And while “Sully” isn’t exclusively centered on the “Miracle on the Hudson,” its focus on the incident’s aftermath is fresh and, in a way, passionate.

“Sully” starts after the crash. It begins with Sullenberger, Tom Hanks, dreaming of the event as if he chosen to go back to LaGuardia Airport instead of landing on the river. In fact, throughout the movie it’s insinuated that both Sully and First Officer Jeffrey Skiles, played by Aaron Eckhart, had symptoms of PTSD from the event. Sully is considered a hero by the people of New York and the United States because of his actions. However, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) isn’t convinced that Sully’s decision to not go back to the airport was the best one. The film goes through the NTSB’s findings that contradict Sully’s choices which include reports that one of the engines hadn’t failed and computer simulations that show the plane reaching an airport safely. Nonetheless, it’s proven that the Hudson landing was unavoidable, and Sully’s given role as a “hero” is deserved for his courage and perseverance.

Though the movie isn’t as intense as “Captain Phillips,” Tom Hanks’ performance as Sully is emotionally stirring and captivating. Even though the movie’s focus is on the NTSB’s proceedings, it’s still entertaining and keeps you engaged. Clint Eastwood’s direction keeps the movie to 96 minutes: no fluff. Furthermore, his shots and cinematography are clean and simple, which make them strikingly admirable. The underlying theme of our common humanity also appeals to a sense of patriotism and is subtly hopeful; the hope the movie gives is represented through a quote from Sully’s union representative: “It’s been awhile since New York had news this good — especially with an airplane in it.”

The controversy surrounding the movie is its portrayal of the NTSB prosecutors; the movie shows the board as incompetent and callous as they actively try to find a fault in Sully. While Skiles is the comedic relief of the movie, some of his jokes come off as cheesy and flat. And despite Sully’s affirmation that it wasn’t just him that saved all 155 people on board, the supporting cast were static and seems to only be there to show support for a lone hero.

“Sully” is feel-good and inspires hope. It reconfirms Hanks’ acting prowess and proves the beauty of a brisk, clean film. And above all, it reminds us that miracles do happen, and that heroes are inspiringly human.

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