Deepwater Horizon

Deepwater Horizon reenacts the horrific events that took place on the 20th of April 2010. Situated in the Gulf of Mexico, the Deepwater Horizon oil rig experienced a catastrophic blowout.

This huge blowout resulted in a huge explosion and unstoppable fire. As the hellish blaze tor through the huge rig, countless acts of bravery were carried out by the crew.

But the tragedy claimed the lives of eleven men, with a further seventeen workers injured. What followed, became known as the BP oil spill. The biggest ecological disaster in American history.

What makes Deepwater Horizon stand out from your usual disaster film is that it is actually based on a true historical event.

It successfully delivers a compelling account of ordinary people who carry out extraordinary acts as they are caught in a horrific scramble for survival.

For me, this was the first film that I had seen from the director Peter Berg.

Instead of relying on CGI, Berg chose to create a huge replica of the actual Deepwater Horizon oil rig. Possibly one of the largest sets ever. Add to this some incredible camera work and the end result is one of the most amazing cinematic experiences.

On top of that, the cast provides a respectful multi-layered performance. Yes, first and foremost this is an action blockbuster. So don't expect Oscar-winning performances.

But, for me, Deepwater Horizon is easily Mark Wahlberg's (Daddy's Home 2, The Fighter) career-best performance playing real-life hero Mike Williams.

Add to that, a powerful performance from Kurt Russell and it's fair to say that these two are the real standouts. The casting of John Malcovich who plays the corporate villain is a masterstroke too.

Now, the three leads do carry the film. However, the rest of the cast do a fine job. Kate Hudson is great playing the wife of Mike Williams. Providing a touching sense of the horror felt by the loved ones who are watching the disaster unfold. Both, Dylan O'Brien and Ethan Suplee are great. But all of the vast cast do a great job delivering an incredibly tense journey.

All in all, Deepwater Horizon does a great job of providing a detailed explanation of the sequence of failings that caused the explosion.

It is visually amazing and had countless nominations for achievements in sound. But it's true strength is that it succeeds in providing a fitting tribute to the bravery of those involved.