United 93 is unbelievably real, not to mention inexplicably and heart wrenchingly powerful. It's a film not just for a nation, but for the entire world

Rating: 10/10 (17 July 2006)

Stunned. That describes two days in my life. One: September 11, 2001. Two: the day I saw this film, based on the tragic events of September 11, 2001. Paul Greengrass's 'United 93' is not only the most powerful and real film I've ever seen, it's one that will stick with me for an eternity. I think it should be a requirement that every person should watch this film, because it will change your outlook on life, much like Schindler's List should have done. The main sticking point here is that the film is indescribably real. The actors are complete unknowns. The only actor you MAY have seen is Peter Hermann, the frequent guest star of 'Law & Order: SVU' and husband to Mariska Hargitay. What adds to the realism as well is that no passenger is the star of the film. Actually, the passengers don't say anything until they plan a revolt on the terrorists. The first half of the film is mainly from the point of view of the terrorists and air traffic controllers in Boston, New York, and Newark. Every character, including the terrorists are played brilliantly, and I believe it was the realism getting under the actors' skin. The climactic showdown between the passengers and terrorists doesn't take place until the end. But back to the realism. As the viewer, you will feel so in tune with the story, that when the culminating scene rolls around, you'll actually want to jump into the screen and join the fight against the terrorists yourself. You know what happens before you watch the film, but you will speak aloud at the end, just hoping the passengers can hold on for one more second, one more minute, one more breath. I absolutely am entranced by the direction here. It is so perfect and well-done that Greengrass should be honored with some awards this year, if not a Best Director nomination at the Oscars. But, knowing how respectful this film is, Greengrass probably wouldn't accept an award for this film. The entire world will be moved by this, not just Americans. There is no stupid patriotic garbage clichés in the film. I am prepared to bet that the words United States are not said in the film. The only time American is said is referring to American Airlines. That's it. Anyone with a heart will be moved to tears in this film, and it is the only film since Schindler's List that I've seen with a group of people to get a standing ovation. Not Crash. Not Mystic River. Not Shakespeare in Love. Not Lord of the Rings. United 93. United's story of heroism, realism, and unwavering power and depth is an indescribable experience that must be seen to understand the magnitude of this film. Easily 2006's best film. Never before have I been moved like this.
10/10 --spy