excellent homage to the victims of every terrorist attack

Rating: 10/10 (23 September 2006)

United 93 is an extremely important movie on highly sensitive subject of terrorist attacks which took place on the 11th of September, 2001. However, important doesn't always mean good. It's relatively easy to shoot a pompous flick using cheap tricks in order to arouse strong emotions among the audience. After the screening, I can say that United 93 isn't and even does not try to be this kind of film. Director/screenwriter Paul Greengrass depicts dramatic events by the application of documentary style through the entire film. The film is shot solely with the use of hand-held cameras. Although at the beginning its chaotic style is hard to swallow, with time it appears to be an ideal solution to portray a tragedy in a credible, thorough way. The fact that the cast comprises of practically unknown actors is also of great importance. Thanks to daring formal measures, we are under the impression that we're really among those people on a plane. Continually vibrating camera gradually triggers off anxiety and almost unbearable tension. Greengrass rises to the occasion and directs with great reverence and restraint all the way to the completely devastating ending which leaves viewers speechless and the picture turns out to be a rewarding experience. To conclude, United 93 is simultaneously an incredibly powerful, intense movie and excellent homage to the victims of every terrorist attack. Therefore, the viewing is essential.