Adrift Review
There’s so many different ways to go to the movies. Now more than ever, we get these “event” films that have so much hype surrounding them, we can’t help but go prime time, opening night with a full crowd. In the fall, we get to slow things down a bit and put our thinking caps on for those Oscar hopefuls. Then, there’s those times we just need to kill a couple hours in the day. Adrift is the perfect movie for that.
In no way, should that be seen as a knock on the film. This isn’t supposed to be some major blockbuster, nor is it meant to be a serious awards contender. What it is, is an example of great counter programming to the onslaught of the typical summer release schedule. Adrift definitely slows things down a bit from all the fun and action we’re used to during this time of year but it still provides a lot of entertainment and stunning visuals.
The film follows the true story of sailors, Tami Oldham and Richard Sharp who set sail in 1983 across the Pacific, only to find themselves shipwrecked after encountering a hurricane. It’s one of the most unimaginable things in life, being surrounded by water on all sides with almost no food or drinkable water. There’s no sense of security and your guard has to be up 24/7. It’s more than enough to drive a person insane. Although Adrift finds a way to capture that feeling, a film like this still runs the risk of falling flat. When I say “like this,” I mean a story that primarily relies on one event or setting. Aside from the extraordinary 12 Angry Men, movies like Rear Window, Life of Pi, or Reservoir Dogs have never done it for me. It always feels like something is missing. What Adrift does so well is how it constantly cuts in between the shipwreck and the events leading up to it. That approach tackles two birds with one stone. First, it keeps things engaging, always switching back and forth. That way, it’s able to tackle a much larger variety of stuff in 2 hours. Second, it provides the necessary backstory to the two characters and gives you a reason to care about their relationship.
Shailene Woodley isn’t someone I’m running out the door to see. However, once I sit down to watch one of her films, I’m always charmed. There’s something about her on-screen presence that always adds a lot to her movies. I always feel a connection to her characters. Adrift is no different. Sam Claflin also does a really solid job playing Richard. The two are very believable together and the movie hinges on that. I only knew Claflin from The Hunger Games franchise and after this I’m curious to see more from him. At the end of the day, both actors are so likable that you’re quickly sucked into the on-screen drama.
Once you do get a chance to see the shipwreck, some of the visuals are pretty impressive. Seeing the hurricane and that big wave come crashing down on their batt really displays the true power of mother nature. In that regard, it’s worth it to experience Adrift on the big screen.
This movie isn’t anything earth-shattering that’ll break all expectations. It’s not meant to be, nor does it need to be. I wouldn’t recommend anyone rush out to see Adrift but like I said before, it’s a perfect way to pass the time if you have a few hours. If you don’t get a chance to see it in theaters, definitely keep it in the back of your head and look forward to a great movie night at home.
