Disney needs to check their movie release calendar. “The Finest Hours,” a dramatic coast guard rescue story, based on a real rescue that was as every bit as dramatic as told in the movie, was dumped in January, when a November release date might have won it more viewers. The movie had scope, emotional appeal, and incredible portrayals of the real live people and situations of the high seas rescue. “The Finest Hours” is now out on DVD / Blu-Ray and Digital HD for your viewing pleasure at home.
The story is set in 1952. The backdrop is a small New England coastal town on Cape Cod where a young couple meet and fall in love. The man (Chris Pine) is on a Coast Guard rescue team and he’s called to rescue the survivors of an tanker, the Pendleton, the girl (Holiday Grainger) has to deal with a world where she doesn’t quite fit in and a town where duty comes first.
The cast is filled in by Casey Affleck (who plays the Pendleton’s respected leader), a terrific score by composer Carter Burwell, and the computer generated imagery and effects teams that make you feel smack dab in the middle of the wildest open sea rescue disaster you’ll ever experience.
It’s true the movie features understated performances, but that’s in part a response to the overwhelming odds of the rescue in the middle of tremendous forces of nature. Instead you see how real people were able to overcome incredible odds to survive and how the coast guard selflessly rescued 30+ stranded sailors.
I saw it in 3D in theaters, which was great. But it was filmed in 2D and converted, so you should be fine in 2D.
BONUS FEATURES:
Blu-ray Combo Pack, Digital HD, Digital SD, Disney Movies Anywhere
Against All Odds: The Bernie Webber Story – Visit the quaint and close-knit town of Chatham, and experience the events surrounding the most heroic Coast Guard rescue ever through the eyes of the people who witnessed them.
BROTHERHOOD – Cast members reflect on the bonds they forged during the shoot.
TWO CREWS – Chris Pine and Casey Affleck share insights into Bernie Webber and Ray Sybert, men who led their respective crews against all odds.
WHAT IS YOUR FINEST HOUR? – A Coast Guard member recounts an incredible rescue.
THE FINEST INSPIRATION: THE U.S. COAST GUARD Meet the people who put their lives on the line for others.
DELETED SCENES:
- A Desperate Idea
- The Story of How They Met
Disney’s “The Finest Hours” is available now. Don’t believe what movie reviewers might have told you. This is a fantastic film you’ll want to watch again and again.