United 93

United 93 This was a very well done, very disturbing film. It is done as "real time" on the morning of 11 Sep 2001, as you follow the people on United flight 93 from boarding to the end, and see simultaneously the events on the ground and in other locations. Very accurately portrays the confusion and disbelief of the events of that day, without foreshadowing the tremendous outcomes that followed.

Unbelievable – that was 5 years ago, and while the events themselves still seem like they were yesterday, it is remarkable to think of all that has happened in the world since then as a result of that terrible day.

The film has the feel of a documentary or docudrama, with no stars in any of the roles, and many of the air traffic control and military staff playing themselves (even those that don’t come off looking very good). In the theatre, you feel that you are there on the flight almost like one of the passengers, a part of the distress and confusion and fear. You want to take part in their talk, you want to shout “do it now” as they plot their push to the cockpit. Even knowing that they are doomed and helpless, you can’t help hoping that this time they will succeed. A true tragedy and an excellent film.

While this will likely not be an instant hit or classic (although it has lasted as long or longer in the theatres as some blockbusters, and gotten much better ratings), I think in time will be come a true testament and memorial to that moment in history, and will be the first of many renditions and perspectives, hopefully leading the way in its honest, poignant and respectful approach to this difficult but necessary subject.

- Robyn