An amazing experience.

Rating: 10/10 (24 December 2000)

The best way to describe "Cast Away" is that it isn't a movie, it's an experience. It seems like so much more than just a movie, it is almost like you are living on the island with Tom Hanks. For the duration of the film I found myself totally lost in it. I was also a cast away.
There are a few films which are able to have just one brilliant moment in the whole picture. "Cast Away" contains several, if not the entire movie itself. The plane crash is one of the most intense scenes in recent memory, and rivals anything in "The Perfect Storm." The scenes where Chuck (Hanks) is trying to make a fire have a desperation and perseverance that accompany them. The raft scenes are also outstanding and incredibly suspenseful.
The best part of "Cast Away" is no doubt Tom Hanks. I have never seen an actor carry a film on his shoulders like Hanks does. The majority of the film is Hanks, and only Hanks. It takes an amazing performance to pull something like that off, and he delivers. His emotional state throughout his time on the island changes, and he doesn't have to say anything. It's all in the eyes and the body language. Tom Hanks may not beat Russell Crowe for best actor, but a nomination is assured.
The mastermind behind "Cast Away" is none other than Robert Zemeckis. He directs with patience and maturity. He allows Hanks the breathing room to make the tedious island scenes work. I have not seen editing this effective since "JFK." He delivers a movie with a lot of suspense and drama. The film's end is one of the best I've ever seen, and really is appropriate.
Go to the theater and experience "Cast Away." Remember to bring your beach towel and sun block.