Summit Entertainment | Release Date: September 30, 2016
7.1
USER SCORE
Generally favorable reviews based on 301 Ratings
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Positive:
229
Mixed:
49
Negative:
23
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7
HfahmyOct 8, 2016
Typical disaster movie... More of a documentary movie that tells how the Deepwater Horizon oil rig collapsed in 2010 due to oil leakage. It shows how the oil rig team and the BP oil company have different basic preferences. The oil rig chiefTypical disaster movie... More of a documentary movie that tells how the Deepwater Horizon oil rig collapsed in 2010 due to oil leakage. It shows how the oil rig team and the BP oil company have different basic preferences. The oil rig chief engineer, Kurt Russell as Jimmy Harell, stands for safety first, and the BP representative, John Malkovich as Vidrine, goes for quick startup of the project at the expense of safety. Compromising safety led to the worst oil platform collapse in American history, resulting in 11 dead. It is a real story telling team show, no role is imposing, just Kurt Russell and John Malkovich, then Mark Whalberg and Gina Rodriguez. The movie is breathtaking, absorbing, well crafted as facts and cinematography. Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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7
SilentHightimesFeb 22, 2017
A movie showing the greed of corporation's and the lives they take knowing they will never have real consequences just to save a buck. The actors and performances were as good as they get better than expected a emotional film.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
NerdConsultantOct 17, 2016
This was a much better film than I was expecting, in fact I would recommend that you go and see it. The film is a disaster movie dealing with the 2010 oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico that lead to the worst oil disaster in US history. It’s aThis was a much better film than I was expecting, in fact I would recommend that you go and see it. The film is a disaster movie dealing with the 2010 oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico that lead to the worst oil disaster in US history. It’s a really, really, good disaster film that has some very good performances from actors like Mark Wahlberg, Kurt Russell and John bloody Malkovich and I am not editing that, because you can’t say his name without saying that because he is so damn awesome. The film’s biggest strength is that director Peter Bergh who, after watching this, you will never believe directed the abomination Battleship, really put the time and effort into understanding how oil rigs work and even went to an oil rig to learn it himself and as a result he makes some good technical information, without it being boring to the audience, plus his reliance on practical effects over CGI for the most of the film really pays off and makes everything feel more physical and have more weight to it. If I have to have a bit of a nit pic, I do think Mark Wahlberg is slightly mis-cast but I would really recommend you see it especially in cinemas. I saw it in an Imax screening and I think that’s the best way to experience it and I am not sure this film will play too well on DVD and NetFlix. Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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7
CineAutoctonoOct 5, 2016
"Deepwater Horizon" was a simple and wonderful true story, real heroes on the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, Mark Wahlberg excelled in his starring role, and the rest of the characters, and include the work that Peter Berg She has done with"Deepwater Horizon" was a simple and wonderful true story, real heroes on the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, Mark Wahlberg excelled in his starring role, and the rest of the characters, and include the work that Peter Berg She has done with this project. Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
KrissTolliday14Oct 9, 2016
If there was a film this year more suited to being watched on a big screen then someone please shout up. Deepwater Horizon fills the screen with incredible stunts, effects and tension that if you are even remotely considering watching thisIf there was a film this year more suited to being watched on a big screen then someone please shout up. Deepwater Horizon fills the screen with incredible stunts, effects and tension that if you are even remotely considering watching this movie then do not wait for the dvd and get to the biggest screen to watch it. The action is stunning, the tension will have you gripping the armrest, the grizzly injuries will have you chewing your fingers and believe it or not the emotional core will have your eyes watering. Based on the real life oil spill, Deepwater Horizon follows the men as they attempt to evacuate the exploding rig. They are all heroes for their ability to remain calm and follow evacuation procedures, but what makes the film so true to real life is that we don't have one main character being the hero for all, instead it shows how many go that little bit further to prolong time for escape. There aren't many near misses or dangling from ropes over canyons, what we have are major issues and characters navigating their way around in the safest way possible. Sounds as if this will take any tension away but in fact it doesn't instead placing the every man in their shoes. Mark Wahlberg is the lead name on the piece but in fact he isn't particularly for and centre of the narrative. It is more of an ensemble piece with certain characters receiving star names to portray them. Malkovich is great as the sneery BP spokesman and Russell brings a charm to Mr Jimmy with this pair's rivalry being one of the stories strong points. Wahlberg's chemistry with Kate Hudson feels real and the emotional impact upon their family brings a tear. There are problems. At times it is overly sentimental, especially towards the all-American hero, and the characters aren't particularly fully developed but regardless you see this for the pure tension woven throughout, from drill pipe tests to full on explosions. It is a very good film and one of the first that will have you fretting at the sight of high pressure mud. Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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9
RealisticRageOct 3, 2016
This movie scares you on a level that is impossible for horror films to surpass. The brutal intensity of watching the employees burning, getting crushed, and receive injury in horrifyingly realistic ways effects you on a level not unlikeThis movie scares you on a level that is impossible for horror films to surpass. The brutal intensity of watching the employees burning, getting crushed, and receive injury in horrifyingly realistic ways effects you on a level not unlike director Peter Berg's previous screenplay, Lone Survivor. Deepwater Horizon does not delve into character development, but rather character depth. You get to know the cast by their personalities and how they react to certain situations they encounter. Kurt Russell and Mark Wahlberg shine as "Mr. Jimmy" Harrell and Mike Williams, their dialogue rich and realistic, specifically with Russell's commanding and competent portrayal of Mr. Jimmy. Peter Berg has made another masterpiece. Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
dspratlinNov 19, 2016
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. What’s it about?

The night in 2010 when the Deepwater Horizon oil rig exploded, causing the worst oil spill in US history.

What did I think?

While initially hamstrung by technical jargon and setup, the film goes from zero to a billion in the space of five minutes as the second act begins. The resulting destruction is an incredible spectacle that is grim, bloody, and, ultimately, deeply saddening.
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1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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8
MisterMendoncaDec 28, 2016
Well I don't tend to write reviews even tho I probably should more often but I felt I NEEDED to write one for this work of art.
First off this was one movie I didn't care to see, but to to say there wasn't tears down my face at the end would
Well I don't tend to write reviews even tho I probably should more often but I felt I NEEDED to write one for this work of art.
First off this was one movie I didn't care to see, but to to say there wasn't tears down my face at the end would be a lie. This movie is one of the most intense movies this year. Peter Berg has a dramatic way of involving you within the gritty intense action that was based on a true event that happened not to long ago. His camera work made things feel not forced and the amount of CGI was exactly what we needed. He didn't overpower the effects and at times made it seem so very real as if it was an actually webcam type device that was within the pipeline itself.
The acting from all angles was prestigious. They were all very well done for the limited about of development shown. Everyone from Russell, Wahlberg, Malkovich, & Gina Rodriguez made you feel what the emotions they where conveying. Like I said there wasn't much of character development but some how that wasn't needed because in the end you felt for every single character even the ones in one or two scenes. This movie over all was just WOW bringing substance and character to an extremely sad event within our lifetime. Highly recommend this movie and I will give it an 8.2 out of 10.
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1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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6
Rebecca31Oct 5, 2016
Based on the true events surrounding America's worst oil spill in history. However the use of the phrase "based on true events" is debatable, more like a made up story with pictures of the actual people shoved into the credits. Aside from theBased on the true events surrounding America's worst oil spill in history. However the use of the phrase "based on true events" is debatable, more like a made up story with pictures of the actual people shoved into the credits. Aside from the unnecessary back story for Mark Wahlberg's character and the overuse of bad omens leading up to the disaster it's worth a watch. Very well made for the most part and generally gets better as the story develops. Recommended. Expand
3 of 4 users found this helpful31
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5
netflicOct 2, 2016
A disaster movie based on real events when in 2010 there was a huge explosion on
an oil rig in the Gulf of Mexico. That incident was considered to be the largest oil spill in US waters.
The visuals are very dramatic. The rest of the movie
A disaster movie based on real events when in 2010 there was a huge explosion on
an oil rig in the Gulf of Mexico. That incident was considered to be the largest oil spill in US waters.
The visuals are very dramatic. The rest of the movie was not that exciting. The rig's personnel talking
technical jargon all the time were in dissonance with music that pumped up the feeling of coming pandemonium.
The last third of the movie describing the explosion is epic. It was definitely very expensive in production
but not very believable. I doubt that the movie will stay with me for any serious period of time.
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2 of 3 users found this helpful21
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7
eagleeyevikingSep 30, 2016
Deepwater Horizon reminded me of the movie Everest in terms of tension and the emotional impact. The film is well acted and harrowing. It also honours the victims by not hyperbolising the events that took place on April 20, 2010.
6 of 12 users found this helpful66
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10
SupermoviefanSep 30, 2016
This is a remarkable film; not easy to watch, but so important for everyone to see. Just as the NY Times said, it's time filmmakers start honoring the real heroes in our country (rather than the usual, worn-out fictional/cartoon ones).This is a remarkable film; not easy to watch, but so important for everyone to see. Just as the NY Times said, it's time filmmakers start honoring the real heroes in our country (rather than the usual, worn-out fictional/cartoon ones). Deepwater Horizon does just that. The spectacular explosions and falling apart of the oil rig are unbelievably real, as are the performances of every single actor. Congratulations to Summit. Expand
5 of 10 users found this helpful55
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9
TVJerryOct 4, 2016
The focus of this film is not on the environmental damage caused by the titular oil explosion, but on the crew members who fought and died during the disaster. Mark Wahlberg plays one especially heroic worker, but the true star is directorThe focus of this film is not on the environmental damage caused by the titular oil explosion, but on the crew members who fought and died during the disaster. Mark Wahlberg plays one especially heroic worker, but the true star is director Peter Berg (look for him in a cameo when the helicopter lands). He sets up the culture with quick-cut macho exchanges, but his magnificent recreation of the chaos and calamity makes the experience exceptionally gripping. It's a dizzying outburst of devastation. While the film clearly indicts BP as the greedy villain, the epic endeavor to avert, then survive the disaster, is riveting. Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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8
BrianMcCriticJan 15, 2017
I really appreciated how this film really gave you the feel and how it pulled very few punches. This film follows a lot of the same troupes that other Peter Berg films do. Not that it's a bad thing. Much of the scenes once the disasterI really appreciated how this film really gave you the feel and how it pulled very few punches. This film follows a lot of the same troupes that other Peter Berg films do. Not that it's a bad thing. Much of the scenes once the disaster begins to occur are devastating and it's a real gut punch. A- Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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10
Daniel_AhabOct 12, 2016
You can't help marveling at the tightrope the filmmakers walk: honoring their courage and sacrifice while making an action flick entertaining enough to justify the more than $100 million it took to make it come alive on-screen.
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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10
alejandro970Oct 20, 2016
Rollercoaster real events drama of a catastrophe announced and the heroic efforts of the workers. Maybe the initial documentary part is some slow, however, is a good choice for the hungry for action.
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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6
sebastianglzSep 30, 2016
It's visually shocking, with a lack of character development. However, it's a dramatization of a real horror that'll scare you more than any horror movie released nowadays. It's worth.
3 of 8 users found this helpful35
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10
Compi24Oct 3, 2016
A technically immaculate, hauntingly authentic cautionary tale that is easily one of the most painful, effective, and memorable cinematic experiences I've witnessed in a theater in a long while. This second installment in Peter Berg's alreadyA technically immaculate, hauntingly authentic cautionary tale that is easily one of the most painful, effective, and memorable cinematic experiences I've witnessed in a theater in a long while. This second installment in Peter Berg's already incredible "American hero/tragedy/Mark Wahlberg" trilogy expands on all the things that made its predecessor, "Lone Survivor," so great. The realistic dialogue, the naturalistic performances, the sweeping set piece direction - it all adds up to a film that literally places you amidst the blistering heat of this grave corporate mistake. It's heart-wrenching, empowering, terrifying, moving, brilliant, brash, and - without a doubt - nothing short of my favorite movie this year so far. Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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10
ThegodfathersonOct 6, 2016
An intense, atmospheric and overall well-made film that shows human emotions in a way no movie has this year. Deepwater Horizon is a film built on courage, the extraordinary cast and most of all, the true events that inspired it and theAn intense, atmospheric and overall well-made film that shows human emotions in a way no movie has this year. Deepwater Horizon is a film built on courage, the extraordinary cast and most of all, the true events that inspired it and the heroes who counted on hope when times were dire. The visuals were excellent, and the film was very well shot. Mark Wahlberg was excellent, and the rest of the cast did not disappoint either. This is an important film to watch that highlights a disaster that seemed almost too much of a dream to occur. Berg's disaster film left me engulfed in emotion and awe. Don't miss it. Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
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9
MarcDoyleSep 30, 2016
The film surprised the hell out of me, to be honest. I knew it would be a harrowing experience, but I didn't expect such excellent acting performances. My hat is off to Peter Berg, as well. He's an underestimated director, but he doesThe film surprised the hell out of me, to be honest. I knew it would be a harrowing experience, but I didn't expect such excellent acting performances. My hat is off to Peter Berg, as well. He's an underestimated director, but he does something pretty amazing with such a tragic story. Expand
3 of 11 users found this helpful38
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2
the_truth_101Oct 17, 2016
The unethical conclusion of the movie totally -- yes, totally -- ignores the colossal environmental impact of Deepwater Horizon oil spill.

Apart from a brief reference to environmental impact at 2/3 of the way through, via a scene with a
The unethical conclusion of the movie totally -- yes, totally -- ignores the colossal environmental impact of Deepwater Horizon oil spill.

Apart from a brief reference to environmental impact at 2/3 of the way through, via a scene with a distressed bird covered in oil which dramatically interrupted some humans (i.e. main focus was their inconvenience/surprise, not sadness at the ecological tragedy), there are no references to the colossal environmental impact whatsoever.

The movie's conclusion labours for five minutes in a "R.I.P." slide show listing of the 11 humans who died.

Their loss is a great tragedy, however 11 human deaths should never hide the 10,000's of animals who died due to this oil spill. The movie's conclusion completely ignores all of this.

Species killed and poisoned by this oil spill: North Atlantic Bluefin Tuna; Sea Turtles; Sharks; Whales and Dolphins; Brown Pelicans; Shorebirds. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Environmental_impact_of_the_Deepwater_Horizon_oil_spill

Peter Berg, the director: what a loser. What an unethical jerk.

We live in a co-dependent world with the environment and wildlife. 10,000's of animals were killed and their natural habitat destroyed, then a movie is made that pretends it didn't happen: totally unethical.
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1 of 4 users found this helpful13
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0
491Oct 10, 2016
A great disappointment!

The dialog in the first half hour was mostly unintelligible and the rest of the movie incomprehensible -- a combination of accents, fast talking, irrelevant banter, and terse, unintelligible tech-speak! Only the
A great disappointment!

The dialog in the first half hour was mostly unintelligible and the rest of the movie incomprehensible -- a combination of accents, fast talking, irrelevant banter, and terse, unintelligible tech-speak!
Only the subtitle clarification helped to let the audience know what was going on.
The rest was continuous noise and flash-bang pyrotechnics.
The story was known from real life, so we knew what to expect, but this movie -- in my opinion -- didn't add much to appreciating it -- except the horror of it all.
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2 of 10 users found this helpful28
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9
LamontRaymondSep 30, 2016
I had goosebumps from the last third of the film through the credits. What a respectful, impactful, exciting film that made me feel, for lack of a better word, unworthy. These courageous people acted so heroically, not only to protect andI had goosebumps from the last third of the film through the credits. What a respectful, impactful, exciting film that made me feel, for lack of a better word, unworthy. These courageous people acted so heroically, not only to protect and save their friends/co-workers, but even to do right by the rig and, in effect, the environment. Mark Wahlberg is at his subtle acting best, and Kurt Russel is simply outstanding. Gina Rodriquez is also amazing in a smaller role. Not sure what the make of Malkovich as the "villain" - he's almost doing a James Carville Ragin Cajun....but hey, they can't all be perfect. . it's a really solid film. Expand
1 of 6 users found this helpful15
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7
EpicLadySpongeSep 30, 2016
Deepwater Horizon is filled of impact about one of the world's largest man-made disasters ever. I usually despise disaster films, but this one did a great job at it.
1 of 7 users found this helpful16
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9
bfoore90Jan 23, 2017
I was aware of the events that took place at Deepwater back in 2010. The movie is extremely well made and intense disaster film that is very respectful to the events that took place at Deepwater. Mark Wahlberg was spectacular here as well asI was aware of the events that took place at Deepwater back in 2010. The movie is extremely well made and intense disaster film that is very respectful to the events that took place at Deepwater. Mark Wahlberg was spectacular here as well as Kurt Russell, I also really enjoyed Gina Rodriguez in this too. Very Good film all around Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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9
RobBob99Oct 2, 2016
Deepwater Horizon is the most technically impeccable movie of the year so far. The visuals are stunning and the sound especially should be a shoe in for an Oscar nomination. This is also the most immersive movie that I've seen in a long whileDeepwater Horizon is the most technically impeccable movie of the year so far. The visuals are stunning and the sound especially should be a shoe in for an Oscar nomination. This is also the most immersive movie that I've seen in a long while and the most impactful. The actors and director Peter Berg make Deepwater Horizon feel as real and authentic as it could be and it gives you a better understanding of what actually happened that night of April 20th. Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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7
BitashJan 9, 2018
Well done, I enjoyed the story line. Great cinematography. Thought was good for presenting events the way they may have happened with some Hollywood twists, worked for me, enjoyed it
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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8
sjultiJan 12, 2017
This is a great movie, its based off the oil spill that happened back in 2010, Mark Walhberg kills it in this just like he did in Lone Survivor and im sure Patriots Day will also be great, i personally love Lone Survivor more though
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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7
Muskrat147Oct 3, 2016
With a similar style to that of Lone Survivor, Peter Berg's Deepwater Horizon stands out with its powerful performances and technical brilliance, as well as its respectful yet intense plot.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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7
CarFan1999Oct 2, 2016
As a disaster movie, it was great with tons of explosions, great camera work, a good performance by Mark Wahlberg, and realistic action. It's also quite depressing how 11 people died on the oil rig and how BP basically got away with this.As a disaster movie, it was great with tons of explosions, great camera work, a good performance by Mark Wahlberg, and realistic action. It's also quite depressing how 11 people died on the oil rig and how BP basically got away with this. Where the film suffers is that the characters aren't that interesting, there's technological talk that the average person wouldn't understand, and there are times where it's hard to understand what's going on. Overall, it's a good tribute to those who died, a good account of what happened that night, and what caused the oil rig explosion to happen. But when it tries to expand beyond a typical disaster film, it falters a bit. Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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8
MarioGROct 1, 2016
It was GREAT movie! From the best ever disaster films I have ever seen in my life!
It really couldn't get any better than this..
''DeepWater Horizon'' was definitely totally worthy of my money to watch it on the cinema!
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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8
downpunxxOct 1, 2016
Can't remember a disaster film I enjoyed as much as I did seeing this in the theater. Was great from start to finish, a lot of stuff I didn't get because I'm not an oil driller, but will definitely watch again when it comes out on video.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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10
mckay813Oct 21, 2016
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. ay Mark You been making a lot of movies in Boston here. What did you forget about your pals from Dorchester but this is Michael W Mckay, I wrote a book called a big house for little men all about Walpole State prison, contact me
hit me up at facebook with a message abighouseforlittlemen55

This Movies is 10 out of ten
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0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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8
Josephgamers65Apr 9, 2021
Deepwater horizon was a really good movie that told a real story About an Oil Rig When I first bought this movie I did not even watch it for a while it was not so interested into it I watched it today I really like Mark Wahlberg performanceDeepwater horizon was a really good movie that told a real story About an Oil Rig When I first bought this movie I did not even watch it for a while it was not so interested into it I watched it today I really like Mark Wahlberg performance in this movie I liked all the characters in this movie the only character they want u really to care about is the wife in this movie which to me trying to be in the movie The Oil stuff what happens is insane It was cool visually and it was insane crazy I give Deepwater Horizon An B+ Expand
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10
cloudmanOct 25, 2016
Outstanding, dramatic thriller about the events leading up to the explosive blowout on deep sea rig in April, 2010. Good portrayal of the key players by Russell, Wahlberg and Malkovich. If you feel complacent or curious about the life on anOutstanding, dramatic thriller about the events leading up to the explosive blowout on deep sea rig in April, 2010. Good portrayal of the key players by Russell, Wahlberg and Malkovich. If you feel complacent or curious about the life on an oil rig at sea, it is well worth seeing. Expand
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9
yekimevolOct 8, 2016
Peter Berg has done a great job mixing the intensity of Deepwater Horizon disaster with some well developed character moments to give the viewers people they can form a connection with. The visuals and the way the film was shot give it somePeter Berg has done a great job mixing the intensity of Deepwater Horizon disaster with some well developed character moments to give the viewers people they can form a connection with. The visuals and the way the film was shot give it some fantastic scenes that art breath taken, Expand
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7
SpangleFeb 11, 2017
Director Peter Berg has found a niche. He is not a good director in the least. He is guy that claims to be "one for them, one for me", but his films continuously seem to be "one for America, and then another for America" at this point.Director Peter Berg has found a niche. He is not a good director in the least. He is guy that claims to be "one for them, one for me", but his films continuously seem to be "one for America, and then another for America" at this point. Deepwater Horizon is no different. Yet, it is somehow a good film with a great sense of scope. A celebration of average joe heroes who saved lives during the Deepwater Horizon oil spill and the negligence on the part of BP that led to this disaster, Deepwater Horizon is an accessible, smart, and powerful film that may pull a little too hard on the viewer's heart strings at the end, but is undeniably thrilling and a riveting portrayal of the disaster. It is not a film that rushes to the finale, rather building tension until the pressure is too much and the whole thing blows up into a cloud of fire.

Mike Williams (Mark Wahlberg) is the Chief Electric Technician on the Deepwater Horizon. James "Mr. Jimmy" Harrell (Kurt Russell) is the head honcho. The two show incredible courage throughout the escapade and save people left and right, even after they are battered and broken. Casting Wahlberg and Russell in these roles is a stroke of genius as they are perfect fits for these modern heroes. Going above and beyond the call of duty, the men sacrifice themselves and their bodies to try and save as many people as possible. Racing across the ship to try a last ditch effort to save the rig and then jumping from the rig itself, Mike Williams' actions after the explosion are incredible, including saving multiple men from the accommodations. Injured and with one eye swollen shut, Mr. Jimmy is a man that never stops to take his hand off the wheel. Once he gets up, he is not going down again until everybody is safe and the rig is clear. Even afterwards, he calls roll to determine who made it off and who lost their lives. Wahlberg and Russell are classic tough guys and really show why in this film with good performances as these real life heroes.

Yet, this really drives at the point of the film. Williams in particular gets the most character development of anybody with a wife and daughter waiting his return at home. He is a family man, the quintessential American. With a single American flag waving on the ship and in the aftermath (oh the national anthem call out, "THE FLAG STILL WAVING OR WHATEVER"...i.e. the flag is still waving as the rig burns in the background, poetic and overtly patriotic), Berg stuffs the heroism down our throat, but makes it work. The film is tense, thrilling, and action-packed. He may go too American and too hard on the celebration of heroes in this one, but these men do deserve praise for their actions and then patriotism is limited to just a few shots. In essence, he reins it in a bit for this one and lets the men do the talking.

However, the key to this film is the explosion and the ensuing fire. With phenomenal sound effects and tremendous visual effects, this is where the huge budget for the film went it paid off. The film will probably not be profitable because of the budget being too high, but as a film, it really paid dividends. The film U-571 is still cited as one of the best films to test to see if a new sound system is working out well, but it may need to be updated to Deepwater Horizon. The sound is simply that good. The explosion, the chaos, and all of the tension leading up to it is impeccable and really what this film rides on throughout. Without it, Deepwater Horizon would not be nearly as good as it, especially considering how little meat is on this bone. Using a pair of men as scapegoats for everything and not covering the punishments faced by BP, the film does include some real court footage but leaves out any information regarding the financial repercussions for BP. The only updates are regarding the dead and the two men who were shown in the film as being direct causes for the disaster. Unfortunately, the film does such a poor job of developing anyone other than Mike Williams, the death of the other characters are not felt at all, instead being reduced to background carnage. Seemingly recognizing this, Berg shows a montage at the end of the real men with their families. A touching moment, it does feel like a band-aid to make up for the fact that he only focused on one man for the whole film.

Thrilling, entertaining, and with tremendous sound editing and visual effects, Deepwater Horizon is a film that is a bit thin with regards to its writing, but never ceases to be a powerful and utterly compelling experience. That said, boy does it ever do justice to Mike Williams and his wife. Not to be disparaging, as I am the last one to criticize based on looks, but these people are not Mark Wahlberg and Kate Hudson. Not even close. Few are, but these people are just your average citizens, yet Berg casts Mark "Muscles" Wahlberg and Kate "Brad Pitt's New Girl" Hudson as them. I would be honored if I was the Williams family.
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8
Jack97Dec 21, 2016
Deepwater Horizon sheds a light on the events of the Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill that I was unaware of. These men and women went through a brutal and shocking catastrophe that's very intense and well directed. It's definitely one of the betterDeepwater Horizon sheds a light on the events of the Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill that I was unaware of. These men and women went through a brutal and shocking catastrophe that's very intense and well directed. It's definitely one of the better disaster movies of recent memory. Expand
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7
gameplayer85Dec 25, 2016
Movie was exactly what it planned to be. Action and a good story. How that snooze fest Sully beat it is beyond me. Does not do the BP oil spill justice, but thier will probably be a documentary or other movie down the road that goes more intoMovie was exactly what it planned to be. Action and a good story. How that snooze fest Sully beat it is beyond me. Does not do the BP oil spill justice, but thier will probably be a documentary or other movie down the road that goes more into it. All in all a good watch. Expand
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8
LeZeeMar 16, 2017
To remind us our errors and limits.

It was a surprising film. Because it was based on a real event, but there's nothing much about heroism which is essential for most of this kind of film and its success to inspire the viewers. I liked that.
To remind us our errors and limits.

It was a surprising film. Because it was based on a real event, but there's nothing much about heroism which is essential for most of this kind of film and its success to inspire the viewers. I liked that. They just wanted to tell the story. Not to create a hero nor a villain. But due to the casting, Mark Wahlberg looks the centre of the story. And also points out a negative character without confirming anything properly. But if the film is depicting the real incident correctly, then it was no man's fault. It should be a technical error that led to the man's push over the limit.

It's April 20 2010 about 60 kms away southern coast of the US in the Gulf of Mexico. A new batch arrives to continue drilling in the deep sea as part of oil exploration. When they felt they have got it, but it's only a back foot. Small small errors, following a big blow, the entire crew with the greater effort to stop it ends in vain. Finally, it is a matter of saving their own life than the drilling platform. With lots of action, how one of the biggest man made disaster in the recent time comes to end covered in the remaining part.

From the director of 'Lone Survivor' and his part in the project was appreciable. It is another sea disaster theme like the recent 'The Finest Hours'. The film was mainly developed from the articles and also got nominated for the Oscars in two categories, but did not win any. Visual effects were the key for such film and I liked those parts. I appreciate for recreating the event for the world know what really happened. It is a must see, not for entertainment purpose, but it will work for that as well. Recommended!

7½/10
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6
sanyrubApr 27, 2017
Excellent first act where the tension builds up like in the best of disaster films while at the same time leaving it clear for everyone of us to see how these repulsive money-hungry companies destroy us, their employees and the planet. GreatExcellent first act where the tension builds up like in the best of disaster films while at the same time leaving it clear for everyone of us to see how these repulsive money-hungry companies destroy us, their employees and the planet. Great second act where the disaster happens. Great scenes. Cringe-worthy third act with laughable group prayer included. Overall, something way better than what I expected from this smaller film which didn´t get much attention when it was released. At teh end of the day, I have never been a big fan of "true stories" in films. But this was good overall. Expand
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7
moviemitch96Oct 5, 2016
Another worthwhile team-up between Mark Wahlberg and director Peter Berg. The true story this film is based off of is retold in a harrowing fashion and many of the scenes were incredibly hard to watch. However, I also thought that the finalAnother worthwhile team-up between Mark Wahlberg and director Peter Berg. The true story this film is based off of is retold in a harrowing fashion and many of the scenes were incredibly hard to watch. However, I also thought that the final act felt a bit rushed and that the acting was questionable at times. I especially thought that the accents of Kurt Russell and John Malkovich's characters felt rather hokey and Malkovich's character was especially wasted. Nonetheless, the film still managed to boast some powerful visuals and action and remained an entertaining watch for the most part. Overall, it's not the best disaster flick out there and isn't what I'd call groundbreaking by any means, but it is worthwhile enough. Expand
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5
TheMetacritiqerOct 6, 2016
A bipolar movie that fails in the areas i expected unfortunately. The first half is great. It delves into the details of running the rig without being boring. John Malcovich is great as what most people would call a villain but isn't really.A bipolar movie that fails in the areas i expected unfortunately. The first half is great. It delves into the details of running the rig without being boring. John Malcovich is great as what most people would call a villain but isn't really. When the disaster starts, it's all good. And the escense of the movie climaxes with the huge explosion. Everything after that is pretty bad though. It honestly should have ended there. Things get way too action packed and numbing. Unlike a intense battle between two adversary's, there is no weight behind all the explosions as it's just about surviving. This style isn't always bad. It can be good like the beginning of cod ghosts. This is the second movie I've seen in a while that should have ended after it's climax. Anthropoid being the other. Now to see The Girl (please don't suck or I'm talking a break from movies) On The Train. :) Expand
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8
43in2014Oct 27, 2016
Related media: I had read some news articles and watched some news clips on the disaster.
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What's it like?: It's a disaster movie regarding the Deepwater Horizon drilling platform that is very close, in technical aspects, to the real
Related media: I had read some news articles and watched some news clips on the disaster.
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What's it like?: It's a disaster movie regarding the Deepwater Horizon drilling platform that is very close, in technical aspects, to the real incident. I think the director had tried to keep the extent of the explosions to what really happened, unlike in the third act of his earlier film, Lone Survivor.
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Pros:
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1) The technical aspects of how an offshore drilling platform operates and how the disaster unfolded seemed very realistic. But see Cons #1.
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2) The atmosphere was kept tense for the audience until the moment of the disaster, and during the disaster, it was a matter of disaster recovery. There was no dull moment for 95% of the film. See Cons # 2.
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3) Mechanical special effects, as opposed to CGI was used to show the explosion - quite a lot of money went to blowing up and burning a mock offshore platform - and the results are great.
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Cons:
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1) Unfortunately the detailed explanation of how the disaster occurred was inadequately done. I was confused as to what was happening to the bubbles, the cement, the drilling mud, the tests, etc. It could have been difficult to insert this explanation in without appearing like the poor job done in Interstellar with regards to how a wormhole allows you to travel faster than the speed of light. Perhaps it could have been a flashback to some training class about platform disasters.
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2) The last 5% of the film was post-climatic and was as if it was trying to engender the audiences' emotions. It could have been done better and with more details after the aftermath. Not a single clip of the oil spill (sans fire) was shown, as if some sponsor of the film had demanded that this not be shown so as not to anger the oil companies?
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How would the the different age groups rate it?
Children: Average
Teens: Good
Young adults: Good
Medium age adults: Good
Old adults: Good
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Rating: 4/5 (no half scores). It is worth paying to watch it in the cinemas.
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7
yashdanMar 5, 2017
Decent movie; a one time watch with good acting; all based on a true story.
I would recommend subtitles for this one!
Effects were good and dramatic....
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8
homer4presidentOct 13, 2016
Although I didn't understand like 90% of what the people were saying, it was all tech talk the first half, the latter half is what saved this movie from getting an lower score. Very well acted, it felt very realistic.
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8
RalfbergsFeb 18, 2017
Great movie, based on real events. Suggest it to everyone - even though maybe the acting isn't the greatest here (even though there are many talented actors in it), it is a good movie in a sense that it depicts the disaster really well andGreat movie, based on real events. Suggest it to everyone - even though maybe the acting isn't the greatest here (even though there are many talented actors in it), it is a good movie in a sense that it depicts the disaster really well and makes you feel everything deeply Expand
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8
badgerryan19May 19, 2017
What a great movie. The performances by Mark Wahlberg and Kurt Russell were absolutely fantastic. It really shows the human spirit and will to fight on. The movie when the rig explodes is edge of your seat thriller/action film. The movie wasWhat a great movie. The performances by Mark Wahlberg and Kurt Russell were absolutely fantastic. It really shows the human spirit and will to fight on. The movie when the rig explodes is edge of your seat thriller/action film. The movie was incredibly intense. Expand
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8
smiyamotJan 11, 2017
Pretty good disaster movie, good information on what went wrong with the drilling rig, good character development, good explosions, good stunts, Mark has taken his acting up a level.
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6
reviewfrom19842Jan 25, 2017
Deepwater Horizon has amazing acting not much else. This movie has 0 Cons but only 1 Pro. .
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9
eva3si0nJun 25, 2023
Deepwater Horizon is an illustrative example of what a disaster movie should look like. Deepwater Horizon tells a simple story, without Hollywood pathos and large-scale CGI scenes. The film has a balance, there is also a well-staged actionDeepwater Horizon is an illustrative example of what a disaster movie should look like. Deepwater Horizon tells a simple story, without Hollywood pathos and large-scale CGI scenes. The film has a balance, there is also a well-staged action and suspense and a good cast. Deepwater Horizon looks without interruption, excellent balance of timing and scenario dynamics. Yes, the ending is blurred, the film literally breaks off after the climax. But Deepwater Horizon is limited by historical accuracy. Excellent acting of Mark Wahlberg and Kurt Russell. I advise everyone to watch, one of the best films in the genre of disaster films. Expand
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4
BroyaxFeb 25, 2021
Souvent la réalité dépasse la fiction et cette catastrophe qui s’est produite en 2010 est assurément du pain béni pour le cinéma hollywoodien en mal d’explosions… et de grosse catastrophe ! pensez donc, une plateforme pétrolière qui faitSouvent la réalité dépasse la fiction et cette catastrophe qui s’est produite en 2010 est assurément du pain béni pour le cinéma hollywoodien en mal d’explosions… et de grosse catastrophe ! pensez donc, une plateforme pétrolière qui fait boum, ça n’arrive pas tous les jours… surtout lorsqu’elle tire son feu d’artifice en pleine nuit, quel spectacle !

Surtout qu’après, ils ont eu droit à une bonne grosse marée noire… et ça, ça arrive un peu trop souvent en comparaison… mais la marée noire n’est jamais aussi spectaculaire qu’une énorme plateforme qui part en vrille… ce n’est pas aussi vendeur.

Quoi qu’il en soit, on tient là un film assez solide (et indéniablement spectaculaire) avec un temps d’exposition assez réduit et un rythme qui ne faiblit pas par la suite. La fin tente de faire maladroitement dans la guimauve à deux dollars mais on a vu pire, je suppose…

Non, les deux gros soucis du film sont bien plus embêtants : d’abord Mark Walhmerde et sa tronche de con, c’est insupportable ! ensuite, la réalisation qui se laisse décidément trop aller au « move », c’est-à-dire à l’agitation et au secouage de la caméra dans tous les sens ! ça aussi, c’est insupportable ! Heureusement que deux vieux sont là pour remonter un peu le niveau, quand même : Russell et Malkovich toujours excellents.

Du coup, le film est assez… gâché alors qu’il aurait pu, qu’il aurait dû être distrayant et.. efficace ! mais au vu des problèmes mentionnés plus haut, il s’avère simplement médiocre, finalement !
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8
DominArsenDec 8, 2018
Deepwater
Un film tiré d'une histoire vraie. Cette histoire c'est le présent de plusieurs personnes travaillant pour une entreprise d'exploitation de gisement pétrolier. Ce film révèle la suite par son genre "Catstrophe" qui signifie que tous
Deepwater
Un film tiré d'une histoire vraie. Cette histoire c'est le présent de plusieurs personnes travaillant pour une entreprise d'exploitation de gisement pétrolier. Ce film révèle la suite par son genre "Catstrophe" qui signifie que tous ne va pas très bien se passer.
Malgré de beaux effets même s’ils sont parfois lourdement masqués par les mouvements de caméra; peine à démarrer et fini sur un hommage. Je ne m'attendais pas a grand-chose et malgré tous nous avons un bel enjeu gâcher par des hommes avides d'argent et de pouvoir, une belle réalité toujours d'actualité.
Pas de Dolby Atmos
Pas de 3D
Des musiques oubliées
Si vous aimez les films-catastrophes, courez sinon attendons d'autres films qui arrivent comme Les Animaux fantastiques (17 novembre 2016) ou Doctor Strange (26 octobre 2016)
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8
MBLipscombMar 15, 2017
On April 11, 2010 – the offshore drilling platform Deep Water Horizon exploded and sank in a disaster and ensuing environmental tragedy that captured the imaginations of the public and tasked the skills and capabilities of the scientists andOn April 11, 2010 – the offshore drilling platform Deep Water Horizon exploded and sank in a disaster and ensuing environmental tragedy that captured the imaginations of the public and tasked the skills and capabilities of the scientists and drill workers who responded to both it and its aftermath. This movie tells the story of the men and the events of that fateful day. Regarded as the greatest environmental disaster to have ever hit the United State. What kind of film is it? Deepwater Horizon is a good example of a good human interest film, following in the tradition of recent similar but also quality, cinematic offerings such as Scully and Their Finest Hours. It captures the emotion and complexity of a situation where something that was tightly controlled, rapidly escalated into a catastrophe. Mark Wahlberg, Kurt Russell, and John Malkovich all bring to the screen the personae that they are known for: Wahlberg as a working-class, honest family man; Russell as the rugged man in charge, faced with frustration and tremendous obstacles; and (of course) Malkovich as the villain.

Minimal language and implied but not shown sex; this film positively reflects a familiar love and its attendant, interconnected affections.

In terms of criticism - the film does stereotypically capitalize on the 'evil company' and 'money-grubbing' bad guys who are seen as being responsible for the disaster trope - and this is possibly an exaggeration, as subsequent findings showed that it may have been the concrete used to finish the well that may have been possibly faulty- but that it was also gross negligence and faulty configuration of the BOP (blow-out preventer) the allowed the well to progress from serious problem to a full-scale catastrophic disaster. This may or may not have necessarily reflected, itself, a culture of indifference and lax safety/prevention efforts. It may have been a lazy, few who failed to follow through with their specific responsibities on the so-called BOP. Further research actually showed and that the pressure differential in the pipe caused heretofore unexpected warping and physical displacement which foiled the last minute effort to actually sever and seal the well. It is therefore very possible that had everything worked just as it was thought that it should have - it might still possibly have taken place. That said - the movie does address, somewhat evenhandedly, the true environmental catastrophe that ensued.

Please check our video review on youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B8QkE2QB_Tg or our website, Becknerandlipscomb.com
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8
ThePeoplesMovieMar 25, 2017
Hollywood and multi-billion dollar corporations are like 2 peas in a pod, they will never step on each other's toes and in movies more likely to be filled to the brim with product placements.In today's Tinseltown, it takes a lot of balls toHollywood and multi-billion dollar corporations are like 2 peas in a pod, they will never step on each other's toes and in movies more likely to be filled to the brim with product placements.In today's Tinseltown, it takes a lot of balls to smear a company's reputation and Peter Berg's Deepwater Horizon, it was something that had to be done. A movie that harks back to the U.S worst natural disaster, when in 2010 BP (British Petroleum) attempted to hide behind the name of profit in the face of disaster.

Peter Berg as a director may not exactly be a positive a positive start for some. Especially when his track record includes the likes of Hancock and Battleship. He has been called a 'Michael Bay' Clone by some critics and with Berg's track record you would be right to be concerned, that Deepwater Horizon could end up another overly patriotic mess. What we do get instead is an efficiently mature movie that will grip you and a director that's ready to shred his adolescent year up.

We head back to 20th April 2010 when one of the world's largest man-made disasters occurred, The Deepwater Horizon oil rig set in the Gulf of Mexico went up in flames. The men and women who worked on this rig were no superheroes, ordinary blue-collar workers. When disaster strikes like it did 7 years ago, they find themselves out of their comfort zone, bravery and will to survive banding them together. They use them to attempt to escape before the flames overwhelm them.

You don't have to wear spandex nor be bitten by a radiated spider to be superhuman.The movie focuses on a few of the characters especially Mark Wahlberg's Mike Williams, an everyman who has a loving wife (Kate Hudson). They have a daughter, proud of Daddy's job, so proud before he heads off she showcases her experiment with a coke can. The can explodes, becoming a metaphor for what lies ahead for her dad. The team Mike's part off is a well oiled (pardon the punt), experienced, they know the rig inside out and know what to do when things go wrong. All thanks to Jimmy Harrell (Kurt Russell), their veteran gaffer who has to walk on eggshells to balance the diplomacy when the BP Suits are around. So who was to blame for the disaster?

Deepwater Horizon doesn't hide the fact BP is the ones to blame, with all fingers pointing at Vidrine (John Malkovich). The one time they should have given the ghost upon the profits for the safety of the workers. Thanks, to Vidrine's cynicism and greed, saw all profit go up and flames, sadly the lives of, many workers too. This turned the disaster movie into a survival movie.

The first hour of the movie is slowly paced, but not in a meaningless way as we learn about the men and women who worked on the rig. Given us a taster of life on the rig and how things worked before things get extremely hot, visceral and chaotic.

Deepwater Horizon is an efficient, engaging movie backed by some strong performances from Wahlberg and Russell. A movie that does celebrate the courage and bravery of heroes, the working man and woman. A stark reminder when money interferes with the running of a well oiled machine, disaster will always strike.

Originally reviewed at www.thepeoplesmovies.com
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8
whatithink33May 12, 2017
This movie correctly doesn't shy away from technical issues and the unknowns of imperfect data. The first 15 minutes of the movie I was worried that it was going to dumb it all down too much. Then it seemed like in the next 15 minutes itThis movie correctly doesn't shy away from technical issues and the unknowns of imperfect data. The first 15 minutes of the movie I was worried that it was going to dumb it all down too much. Then it seemed like in the next 15 minutes it would get too technical (I was watching on DVD and needed the subtitles as some of the tech talk was hard to hear). But in conclusion I think the movie struck a good balance. The movie has a great industrial feel to it - the pressure inside the pipes, the power of the engines and hydraulics, the powers of nature they are trying to control, the mass of complexity and steel that is the drill rig and the interconnection of the workers to the rig, the very scale of the drill rig and the challenge or audacity of this undertaking. This is a factory type setting where things can go wrong and safety rules are there for a reason. But the rig and those jobs exists for a reason and that is produce oil. The cast is good and you appreciate the conflicting pressures that motivate the characters. It feels real. Once the action starts the movie is riveting. Whatever tricks they used to create the scenes of the disaster, they did a great job. You won't know whether to hunker down, follow company safety procedures, or run for your life, but you feel the danger. Also, at the start of the movie there are a couple of very understated scenes of people fueling up vehicles - a nice touch - we take the availability of fuel for granted, this film shows the effort it takes to get it. Expand
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7
Hurricane16Feb 4, 2018
It starts off slow, but becomes more action-packed, thrilling, and gripping every minute
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8
tamcwlmmJan 23, 2018
Tim Berg makes this movies based on true stories that time and time again manage to have their impact on the viewer. After 'Patriots Day', 'Deepwater Horizon' is no different. The filmmakers knew what they had to accomplish, and they did ohTim Berg makes this movies based on true stories that time and time again manage to have their impact on the viewer. After 'Patriots Day', 'Deepwater Horizon' is no different. The filmmakers knew what they had to accomplish, and they did oh so good. Great performances by Mark Wahlberg, Kurt Russell and other actors. Be sure to put this in your watchlist. Expand
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5
amheretojudgeApr 20, 2018
there should be rules..

Deepwater Horizon The second half of the feature is enthralling and filled with high pitched dramatic action sequences that ups the ante of it which was laid down since the beginning of its first half as a slow pill
there should be rules..

Deepwater Horizon The second half of the feature is enthralling and filled with high pitched dramatic action sequences that ups the ante of it which was laid down since the beginning of its first half as a slow pill that kicks in later than it should. Peter Berg is no short on execution but the script is the real downer that never had enough crisp to make it in the first place. Mark Wahlberg is investing all his chips in along with a great supporting cast like Kurt Rusell, John Malkovich and Gina Rodriguez. Deepwater Horizon might be informative and factual but it certainly isn't intriguing or entertaining for the audience to be effected by it.
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8
DaddyO3Feb 14, 2018
We watched this the same day as Patriots Day.
I thought this was a more enjoyable movie. Totally unbelievable action sequences, but still enjoyable. Get the popcorn ready when watching this one
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8
MrAndreiApr 18, 2020
Deepwater Horizon represents how the films should dedicate to man-made disasters, showing how dangerous could the disaster be in a more dramatic way. Even though starting with the main character saying goodbye to his family is kinda cliche, IDeepwater Horizon represents how the films should dedicate to man-made disasters, showing how dangerous could the disaster be in a more dramatic way. Even though starting with the main character saying goodbye to his family is kinda cliche, I appreciate that the movie as I said had some great scenes in the middle and the ending of it. Expand
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8
DSakazJul 23, 2020
Many stories of real life dangers, their aftermaths and heroes barely make it to public knowledge. This movie was able to deliver all that, giving us a chance to live in the events and honour the heroes. Well done to director Peter Berg andMany stories of real life dangers, their aftermaths and heroes barely make it to public knowledge. This movie was able to deliver all that, giving us a chance to live in the events and honour the heroes. Well done to director Peter Berg and Mark Wahlberg's exceptional acting. Expand
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