well worth seeing (some spoilers)

Rating: 8/10 (24 July 2002)

Coming out of 'K-19', I had to wonder--what movie did those
negative reviewers see? More specifically, what movie did the
disgruntled Russian submariners see? Nothing in this movie
portrays the submariners as incompetent or as drunkards. One
officer is found drunk on duty early in the film; he is dismissed
from his post, although defended by his captain as a good man
who has never been found thus before. As for incompetence, it is
the Communist hierarchy, and by connection, the Navy that is
shown responsible for the cost-cutting and carelessness which
leads to the tragic consequences for the crew. Yes, the crew refers
to a manual for help in solving the reactor problem. When they find
it useless, they come up with their own solution. If anything the
crew is presented in a humanistic and resourceful light without
denying their fear and uncertainty.
Much has been made of the accents. It seemed a little obvious at
first, but the performances soon overcame any awkwardness, for
me. Although the beginning was a little stiff, I found myself
completely absorbed by this story by the time the sub put out to
sea, and never lost interest. Harrison Ford proves that he can still
become a character, a fine thing to see after too many desultory
roles.
'Das Boot' is my favorite movie; 'K-19' is its own animal but shares
some fine characteristics with that great film.
Ignore the negative reviews. This is a fine movie.