U-571

Date:   April 22, 2000

Cast:

Directors: Jonathan Mostow 

Official Website: U-571

Invariably, any movie set aboard a submarine bears comparison to two standards.  1987’s Hunt for Red October, and 1993’s Crimson Tide set the guidelines by which these kinds of films are to be measured.  U-571 is not in the same league as either of these two, but still bears mentioning because while not being very original, it is still an enthralling, suspenseful experience that bears a viewing.

The plot centers on a plan to steal a code encryption machine from a disabled submarine during WWII.  An American ship, commanded by Paxton, with McConaughey as his second in command, poses as a German supply ship to infiltrate, and ultimately steal this machine, and ease the war for the Allies.  However something goes horribly wrong, and the Americans are forced aboard the U-boat, fighting for survival and their lives.  The key to this films success is not in its story.  It combines elements of Tide (power struggle) and October (a foreign submarine) but never confines itself completely inside, as both of those films do.  The director realizes that his story, and his performers are not his strongest point, hence focusing on them, as its predecessors did, could doom the movie.  Instead, he sprinkles elements of the characters, and plot twists, into an exciting action plot, that will indeed have you on the edge of your seat even if you feel you know the eventual outcome.  The action scenes are well done and filmed, bringing into the sub with them, giving you their trapped, helpless feeling and making you a part of their experience.  The underwater shots, and battle sequences are incredibly synchronized and realistic.  They are the true stars of the film and what keep you watching, and wandering.  Although, I do have to wonder, is it really safe to shoot guns inside a sub?  I would think the ricochet would be brutal. 

As I stated above, the story is rehashed, and never really the focus.  There is a storyline about McConaughey being fit for command and having what it takes, however this point is never really dwelled upon, but rather proven or disproved through the actions.  No performances really stand out, good or bad, they are basically just pawns in a wonderfully gripping action film.

Ultimately, U-571 shows that a film living in the shadows of others can show a different perspective on things, by concentrating where the others did not.  It realizes that it can be the action filled half cousin of the much better films, and accepts its position merely by shifting focus.  I was never bored, on the edge of my seat, smiling, nervous biting my nails, and in the end, walked out of the theater satisfied.  I knew that I had seen a good movie, but not a great one.  This one is an enjoyable way to spend a Saturday afternoon, and a nice way to finish out the “Sub 3-some” with a little spark and action.  If you want characters, plot and a strong story, see the other two, but if you want a thrilling action film that you can cheer for without having to really think very much, then see this one as soon as possible. ($$$ out of $$$$)

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