Captain Phillips Review - 3 Stars

When Tom Hanks makes a movie, people pay attention.   “Captain Phillips” gives Hanks the kind of role he loves — that of an ordinary man pushed into extraordinary circumstances.   Based on the true story of a cargo ship off the coast of Africa invaded by Somalian pirates who take over the boat and on leaving kidnap the captain.  The movie pulsates with tension.  The kidnapping turns into an international incident.  The U.S. calls in the Navy.  Hanks being Hanks you pull for his survival.  The pirates are played by recent Somalian immigrants.  They add a level of realism and menace.  Particularly outstanding is Barkhad Abdi as the leader of the pirates.  “Captain Phillips” keeps you on the edge of your seat.  It does not, however, do much beyond recreating the event.  It tells a story of kidnap and rescue and leave it at that.  For many this will probably be enough.  Does it deliver what it promises?  Recreation of a real life thriller.  Is it entertaining?  Edge of your seat tension.  Is it worth the price of admission?  Not bad thriller.