Entertainment : In Depth: \'Captain Phillips\' brings true story of modern pirates to Palace

“Captain Phillips” takes command of the Palace Friday, November 1 through Thursday, November 7. Rated PG-13 for some intense scenes, this true story runs 136 minutes. Showtimes are 7 pm each night Friday through Thursday, with a 2 pm matinee on Monday.

Two-time Oscar winner Tom Hanks is Captain Richard Phillips in this true life story of the US cargo vessel that was hijacked by Somali pirates in 2009. The “no nonsense” captain saves his crew from capture and takes it upon himself to negotiate with the ruthless pirates, but when their plan goes off course, they improvise by taking the captain hostage and trying to escape to the Somali shore.

Here’s the bottom line: “Captain Phillips” is an amazing film. The cinematography skillfully places you in the middle of the action. I thought I knew the real life story. I’d seen the news reports, but I found that I actually had no idea how the events of those days at sea really unfolded. The remarkable actions of the captain and the Navy Seals that come to the rescue play out in vivid detail.

I received a real education on several levels: The level of poverty and despair in Somalia, the defense mechanism for cargo ships in the open sea, how four pirates in a motorboat take over a monstrous cargo ship and the military operations once a crisis is identified, for instance.

Yes, “Captain Phillips” starts out a little slow for the first few minutes with a glimpse into the captain’s everyday life in New England. BORING. But you’d better get your potty break in fast, because after his plane lands, you won’t leave your seat! I saw this movie in a theater with at least 100 other people, and nobody moved for 136 minutes.

This is a very intense film, so I would leave the little ones at home, but I think everyone over age 12 should see “Captain Phillips.” When the credits rolled, my breath returned, and I just breathed “Wow!” I’m pretty sure you will too. See you at the Palace!