Solid, gripping and realistic

Rating: 8/10 (19 August 2002)

It's difficult to find a flaw with this film, because it is very realistic and the only "weaknesses" are due directly to this realism: a lack of big moral points to make, sometimes slow plot development. Having said that, I found it quite gripping and involving on both of two viewings.

Good or great performances from all involved, with a pleasing lack of showboating even from the usually loud Kevin Bacon. A real sense of team effort developed, which is very rare in Hollywood, where 90% of films feature one or two main characters saving the world (boring).
This film is a fine example of how to bring a real story to life without butchering it or just using it as a set piece - in stark contrast to Pearl Harbor. I can't say it's an insanely great film, but it's pretty damn good. 8 out 10.