As the fall/winter season chugs along, the hits keep rolling in. Adding to the already sizable list of outstanding films this year is "Flight". In Robert Zemeckis' return to live-action filmmaking, we get a fascinating investigation of a deeply flawed man. The film tells the story of an alcoholic/drug addict pilot(Whip Whitaker) who successfully crash lands a faulty plane, saving almost all of its passengers.
Following this early incident, the film follows the aftermath of his heroic accomplishment, juxtaposed with the negative consequences of his toxicology report. From the first scene, you know this will be a bruising character portrayal. We meet Whitaker waking up from a booze and drug-filled night with a flight attendant. As if to prevent any initial sympathy, Whitaker rolls over, finishes his beer and snorts another line. It's a perfect setup for the rest of the film, firmly establishing that this man has a serious problem. Whitaker heads to work hungover and high, unprepared for the life-changing event that is about to happen. This plane crash is one of the best parts of the film, as it's a visceral sight to behold. It really captures the terror of impending doom. Many films would struggle to thrive after such an exhilarating opening, but this film has a lot more to say.
As we follow the aftermath, the film proves to be a penetrating exploration of various themes. It addresses issues of faith, morality and most of all, addiction. All of these are filtered through a remarkable character study of Whip Whitaker. The film features a fantastic ensemble (notably John Goodman, Kelly Reilly and Don Cheadle), all of whom are quite outstanding during their individual moments. In the end though, Denzel is the only one you really remember (and maybe John Goodman). His is a meaty role and he slips into it like a glove. He calls on all the tools in his acting arsenal to craft the unbalanced persona of this damaged individual. It's quite a challenge, as this isn't a rosy process of rehabilitation. Despite the extreme trauma of the plane crash, Whitaker doesn't immediately turn around his life. It's quite a risky move, as it can be quite jarring for the audience. Whitaker is abrasive and unapologetic about his addictions. For a director who is known for making pleasant films with likable lead characters, I was quite impressed by this uncompromising decision. You keep wanting the script to clean up this man, but there's no hand holding here. With Washington's honest interpretation though, the viewer is completely drawn in, keenly anticipating his character's resolution. Although his actions are despicable, you completely understand his inner turmoil and coping methods. Once you accept the severity of his problems, the performance just washes over you. It’s the Denzel Washington show and you either go with it or you don't.
