Im Herzen der See (2015)

Im Herzen der See: Directed by Ron Howard. With Chris Hemsworth, Benjamin Walker, Cillian Murphy, Brendan Gleeson. A recounting of a New England whaling ship’s sinking by a giant whale in 1820, an experience that later inspired the great novel Moby-Dick.

“It is said that we understand more about space than our own sea, although one thing both realms have in common is the propensity to convey epic journeys to silver screen. Thereu0026#39;s an inherent romantic feel to maritime life, even as a tragic showing like Life of Pi or Titanic. This is the same attribute u0026quot;In the Heart of the Seau0026quot; has, and even though there are minor blemishes, it still produces a good human drama shown by impeccable visual atmosphere.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eThis is a retelling of a particular shipu0026#39;s ordeal, also an inspiration for the novel Moby Dick. It is told from an account of then young crew member, he now tells the story of adventure and misery in his older days. While itu0026#39;s a good ground for characterization and set-up, it might overhype its own story and break the pacing slightly. Fortunately, Brendan Gleeson and Michelle Fairley are capable enough to maintain their own mini subplot.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eThe actual voyage consists of two leads, Owen Chase (Chris Hemsworth) and George Pollard (Benjamin Walker). Owen is a veteran sailor, who is promised a captain seat, but ultimately denied of the right because of nepotism favoring George. The two collides frequently, and more than once their dispute ends up bringing malady to the ship and its crew.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eChris Hemsworth is a great actor, however this is not the same level of rivalry he had in Rush. It is by no fault of Benjamin Walker who does try to fulfill the role, but he doesnu0026#39;t portray the personality clash of an epic saga. In fact, Hemsworth has more connection with Gillian Murphy, the third in command, even though they have lesser screen time together. The rest of the crew isnu0026#39;t compelling enough, in exception of young Nickerson who will eventually narrates it.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eFor most part the visual is splendid, mainly when it transcends the barrier between sea line and underwater. On some scenes it pans out so nicely it brings an alluringly harrowing view of ocean, its human drifters and beastly occupants. It has overall bluish tone that keeps the cold isolation vibe while the gigantic whale, though we know itu0026#39;s CG as whale is too much of a diva to work with, is still pretty convincing in close up.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003ePlot keeps a straightforward momentum, although it may be inconsistent sometimes. There are parts where it seems to dawdle for ten or fifteen minute more than needs be, while some scenes are cut short and ultimately feels disjointed. Itu0026#39;s not a big issue, but it does make the story skips rather abruptly or plods at times.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eIn the Heart of the Sea is an interesting excursion with fine visual. Granted, it doesnu0026#39;t navigate well enough under some waves, yet this homage to a great classic has its enchanting and inspiring moments.”