A sea-disaster film that does not sink.
Starring George Clooney, Mark Wahlberg and John C. Reilly as members of a group of fishermen who find themselves caught between two terrible storms that combine to create...the perfect storm. Set in a New England fishing town, a burly band of touch men join Captain Billy Tyne (Clooney) on a voyage out to sea, in a perilous fishing expedition. Each of the members has their own reasons for being on the ship, be it money, love, adventure, or obsession, but their motives soon become irrelevant when the pounding rains and fierce winds hit, causing their lives to come into danger.
From the outset, this film represents the humble fisherman's life authentically, representing the arduous struggle for the next big catch well. The film is filled with camaraderie and man-bonding, enough to make you feel a little awkward, but this only helps to add to the perilous atmosphere. Clooney is worthy of the lead role, providing a character portrayal that is engaging and intriguing. The crew are a decent band of men, fighting one moment, saving each other the next. John C. Reilly is particularly interesting.
The most effective element of this film is the use of water. Many of the stunts and scenes are breathtaking (excuse the pun), creating a claustrophobic and intense feeling. When the ship and crew are being beaten by the storms, it actually feels punishing, and real.
As with the majority of disaster films, the storyline plays out almost as expected, apart from the ending, which was a pleasant surprise. However, it is a film that holds ground even 11 years after its original release, and cements its place in cinematic history, if only for that infamous image of the gigantic wave with the tiny boat.
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