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9

dammanDec 15, 2015

This movie is not bad at all I don't know why people would give this movie a 1 give me a break. The acting was on point and just to see all the people starve until you see their rib cage mad me really emotional. Go see the movie if you giveThis movie is not bad at all I don't know why people would give this movie a 1 give me a break. The acting was on point and just to see all the people starve until you see their rib cage mad me really emotional. Go see the movie if you give this movie less than a 6 you're a troll?… Expand

5 of 5 users found this helpful50

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10

TLHGDec 16, 2015

Most unfavorable reviews about this movie (both by users and by professional critics) seem to stand on the fact that the movie was said to be a representation of the actual story that inspired Moby Dick, the book, when the truth is the movieMost unfavorable reviews about this movie (both by users and by professional critics) seem to stand on the fact that the movie was said to be a representation of the actual story that inspired Moby Dick, the book, when the truth is the movie is far from what you will find if you read the original story. In my opinion, if you are not attached to expectations based on Moby Dick or on the actual In The Heart of The Sea book, you will be stunned by the marvelous visual art in the movie (take together everything, cinematography, visual effects, costumes, soundtrack, all impeccable), the solid acting, the intriguing plot, and the involving atmosphere. As the story unfolds, the viewer may feel, at some points, that some reflections that the movie tries to provoke are left hanging and unfinished. However, in the end, when the main plot finds its way, all the little things that were left hanging during the movies become teasers that leave you with a bittersweet sensation of "I wanted a little more". More of what? Well, more whale fight scenes, more conflicts between the men, more storms... I could easily take another 20 minutes of scenes in the ocean with this movie!… Expand

4 of 4 users found this helpful40

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8

Rodrigo3kJan 14, 2016

Suspense, drama and action. The movie have some incredible ponts of view in the camera panning, the story is easy to understand and it doesnt give you time to be bored.

4 of 4 users found this helpful40

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7

jeggemDec 22, 2015

Raping whales for blubber oil draws a vengeful whale from hell leaving its human hunters in desperate situations steeping to desperate means for survival. A classic man versus nature period piece told masterfully by veteran director RonRaping whales for blubber oil draws a vengeful whale from hell leaving its human hunters in desperate situations steeping to desperate means for survival. A classic man versus nature period piece told masterfully by veteran director Ron Howard and acted well with a good cast, this film should inspire strong emotions and interest in the attentive viewer.… Expand

2 of 2 users found this helpful20

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7

eagleeyevikingJan 8, 2016

Though mundane at points, veteran Ron Howard's sea tale In the Heart of the Sea is an entertaining man vs nature story that is well acted, beautifully shot and masterfully directed.

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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7

HealingToolbox1Apr 12, 2016

Everest (2015) and In the Heart of the Sea (2016) are both true-life disaster stories from non-fiction books. I believe both have the exact same script problem. It may be easier to see in Everest. We like the characters but we never knowEverest (2015) and In the Heart of the Sea (2016) are both true-life disaster stories from non-fiction books. I believe both have the exact same script problem. It may be easier to see in Everest. We like the characters but we never know much of WHY they do what they do--because it was not in the book. So the miraculous recovery of the Outside reporter played by Josh Brolin lacks the backstory to buttress an amazing acting performance.

I agree with Anthony Lane in New Yorker that we don't get to see enuf of a character arc in any character in Heart of the Sea to engage us that much.

Not all "inspired by true events" scripts hold water. But in this regard Bridge of Spies (2015) is a master class in how to cobble together true life characters and detail into a story with dramatic meaning.

The spectacle of Everest and Heart of Sea are not enuf, probably can never be enuf, to compensate for engaging dramatic construction. This is why do few film scripts exist each year; so few have an authentic or archetypal dramatic story with adequate character arcs to tell.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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7

moviecritic68Dec 29, 2015

Movies are meant to be entertaining and this story does just that. No this film won't produce Oscars but that is in a vast majority. Ron Howard did a more than adequate job with the screenplay and the acting roles were well played out. SoMovies are meant to be entertaining and this story does just that. No this film won't produce Oscars but that is in a vast majority. Ron Howard did a more than adequate job with the screenplay and the acting roles were well played out. So disregard all the negativity spewed by the few who found this movie unrewarding. It is what it is and presented in the best way possible.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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7

herman73trioJan 26, 2016

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This movie is one of the most i personally anticipated this year.The reason is that my curiosity of what exactly happened to whale ship Essex.The other reason is Ron Howard,he is one of the most highly respected movie director.back in 1980's era i've seen the movie "Cocoon" and in 1991 "Backdraft". I really impressed by Backdraft cause the way the director describe the fire is like a living persons that breath and ready to burn and destroy everything.That fire also can be a very dangerous weapon.Guess all the moviegoers must remember The Da Vinci Code. The thing that i saw in Backdraft is recurred again in Ron Howard's new movie. Set back in 1820 when the Essex whale ship's voyage must face the deadly assault by a 90 feet sperm whale.This movie stars based the storytelling by Tom Nickerson-the only ex crew of Essex that still alive- to a novel writer Herman Melville.A young novelist that have this ambition to write one of the most spectacular fiction adventure novel ever written. A whale ship that sail under the navigation of Captain Pollard (Benjamin Walker)-a captain by ancestry and off course lack of experience- assist by Owen Chase (Chris Hemsworth)1st Class Sailor-who also reluctantly but have no choice but to accept this task by the owner of Essex ship.Takes a very short time for this 2 character involved in psychological war between them.At first Essex managed to catch a whale, but after a few months of traveling, where food stocks thinning finally Chase and Pollard decided to divert the direction of the ship towards the path of tropical waters of the Pacific-after hearing the story of a Ship Captain Spain who survived the attack from 90 feet white whale.However, both Chase and Pollard ignored the warning from the Spanish Captain. A decision based on ambition and greed which then carry Essex into a catastrophe. they only imagine hundreds of whales on display in front of the eyes waiting to be hunted and brought home 2000 gallons of whale oil.And then, Essex was brutally attacked by a whale with a size that was never imagined by them. Essex ship was sinking to the bottom of the Pacific ocean. And crew who survived the attack separated into three boats had to live in the shadow of a very painful death.Stranded in tropical oceans where sunlight stings during daytime as whole body skin burns. In the course to survive, all the crew had to face moral dilemmas by do the abomination or die slowly in pain. Once again Ron Howard managed to do what he's really excel,the whale that destroyed the Essex described not only as a ferocious monster but as a god of the ocean, the whale protectors of human greed. Internal conflicts between cockiness Pollard as the ship's captain and Chase as a seaman 1st class who is an expert in calculating weather and sharper instincts. A little unfortunate that this film only lasted 2 hours which I think is not enough time for Ron Howard to explore the burden of the old Tom Nickerson who have to live for decades with terrible memories. Also not enough time to explore the mental burden of the young novelist Melville (Whisaw). And looks like Ron Howard strive very hard to share a story segment. Even if the film is not a masterpiece but I feel satisfaction in watching this movie. Even if all the actors act well, but it is the whale measured 90 feet that steal the show.Whale is described as being so characterized, the authority that gives lessons so valuable that a knowledge sometimes requires sacrifice so heartbreaking. Ambitions that humans will someday be stopped by the might of the children of nature.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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7

smiyamotApr 6, 2016

How did Melville come up with the idea for "Moby Dick"? This movie tells the tale of an actual whaling ship that was attacked by a giant white whale. The survivor of the sinking tells Melville how it happened; the basis for his book.How did Melville come up with the idea for "Moby Dick"? This movie tells the tale of an actual whaling ship that was attacked by a giant white whale. The survivor of the sinking tells Melville how it happened; the basis for his book. Factual, made up, who cares? It's a great story of how men battled the ocean to earn their living, the risks they took. Also, a parable of our times where the rich elite get richer off the labors of the 99%.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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10

GinaKDec 14, 2015

Although I know I am in the minority, I thoroughly enjoyed In the Heart of the Sea. I loved the very realistic special effects and the excellent acting, and I thought the pacing was perfect. Perhaps I am wrong, but I think this will somedayAlthough I know I am in the minority, I thoroughly enjoyed In the Heart of the Sea. I loved the very realistic special effects and the excellent acting, and I thought the pacing was perfect. Perhaps I am wrong, but I think this will someday be considered one of Ron Howard’s finest films. You feel like you are really on the ocean and in the boats after the white whale attacks.… Expand

11 of 12 users found this helpful111

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9

JebDec 20, 2015

This is one of the world's greatest adventure stories. One can sit back and enjoy it or analyze it til you sink it. I've sailed across the Atlantic several times including once without an engine or any electronics and from an old salt'sThis is one of the world's greatest adventure stories. One can sit back and enjoy it or analyze it til you sink it. I've sailed across the Atlantic several times including once without an engine or any electronics and from an old salt's perspective enjoyed "In the Heart of the Sea" immensely.… Expand

5 of 6 users found this helpful51

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9

Jollyjoe1000Dec 22, 2015

This is a great Moby dick movie.It works perfectly. It is intense.And the design of Moby Dick is awesssssosommmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmeeeeeeee!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

4 of 5 users found this helpful41

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7

TVJerryDec 15, 2015

Since this is the truth-based story that inspired 'Moby-Dick," you'd expect it to be all about the crew vs. the whale. While that's a big part, this narrative expands to become a story of survival at sea. The encounters with the CGISince this is the truth-based story that inspired 'Moby-Dick," you'd expect it to be all about the crew vs. the whale. While that's a big part, this narrative expands to become a story of survival at sea. The encounters with the CGI creatures, as well as a harrowing storm, are amazingly rendered. On top of that, the grand style of the cinematography and rich look of the art direction add a layer of visual majesty. Then there's the actual drama: It unfolds with encounters and relationships that are too trite, flashes back to the storyteller (which halts the pace) and never really creates characters that are compelling (even Chris Hemworth seems like yet another superhero). The film attempts to be grand storytelling in a classic vein (albeit with lots of quick cuts), but lacks the spirit to capture the heart.… Expand

3 of 4 users found this helpful31

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7

PeterAlexanderDec 11, 2015

Based on the creation of the suspenseful and at times terrifying novel, Moby Dick, the film In the Heart of the Sea manages to convey such aspects, but is unable to sustain it for the course of the film's entirety. Whilst several scenes stuckBased on the creation of the suspenseful and at times terrifying novel, Moby Dick, the film In the Heart of the Sea manages to convey such aspects, but is unable to sustain it for the course of the film's entirety. Whilst several scenes stuck with you on an emotional level, Brendan Gleeson's narration was superb and the story was immersive at times, a lack of character development, mixed visual effects and an over reliance on a narrative that shifted its focus off the whale itself, harm the film overall. Whilst the film experience was a positive one, I was left slightly underwhelmed as the story had potential to provide for something far more gripping.… Expand

3 of 4 users found this helpful31

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9

chrismovieguyDec 16, 2015

this was one of those movies were the preivews lead u to think one thing and it turns into a whole other it was not as action packed as it looked was still a decent movie it defenetly had its intence moments and a good story it had alot ofthis was one of those movies were the preivews lead u to think one thing and it turns into a whole other it was not as action packed as it looked was still a decent movie it defenetly had its intence moments and a good story it had alot of heart too just a little slow in spots but a wonderful movie i say go see it dont expect nonstop action but see it its wonderful… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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6

ryan_gozDec 11, 2015

Mainly the determination and commitment from the cast along with some good character conflict and somewhat impressive CGI whales are what make this film worthy to watch. Although there is some poor cinematography, crowded scenes and a strangeMainly the determination and commitment from the cast along with some good character conflict and somewhat impressive CGI whales are what make this film worthy to watch. Although there is some poor cinematography, crowded scenes and a strange accent from Chris Hemsworth. Overall this was an average movie and does not showcase Ron Howard's talent as well as his previous films.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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8

FattermadiganDec 13, 2015

Una película conmovedora que te tendrá pegado al asiento maravillado durante las dos horas que dura. Sinceramente, no entiendo el motivo de las críticas tan negativas que se ha llevado en algunos medios. Un peliculón en toda regla.

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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10

MovienutzDec 13, 2015

Loved this movie. This was the most realistic visually stunning film I have seen to date. My hat goes off to Ron Howard for another amazing piece of work!

3 of 5 users found this helpful32

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7

geo333Dec 26, 2015

Ron Howard latest film is ambitious and creative, however it falls short of that goal making it a solid entry to his portfolio. With beautiful scenes and solid performances In The Heart Of The Sea will not displease nor please viewers insteadRon Howard latest film is ambitious and creative, however it falls short of that goal making it a solid entry to his portfolio. With beautiful scenes and solid performances In The Heart Of The Sea will not displease nor please viewers instead entertain them for a moment.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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6

BenTheBrownieDec 13, 2015

Based on the 1820 event, a whaling ship is preyed upon by a giant whale, stranding its crew at sea for 90 days, thousands of miles from home. I'm happy to say that this movie was surprisingly good! Sure, the pacing was slow and at a few partsBased on the 1820 event, a whaling ship is preyed upon by a giant whale, stranding its crew at sea for 90 days, thousands of miles from home. I'm happy to say that this movie was surprisingly good! Sure, the pacing was slow and at a few parts it got dull. But away from that I though it was a fun watch. The movie's build up was long, It took almost the entire movie to get to the actual meat of the film. The acting wasn't phenomenal but was most definitely watchable especially the ones from Chris Hemsworth and Tom Holland. For the time they are on screen together, they have a very watchable chemistry. The whole Mentor and Mentee thing going on between them is quite enjoyable. The cinematography and visual effects were absolutely breathtaking. Every time you see Moby Dick destroying the ships and wrecking havoc is just tension filled and heart pumping. The darker twist in the movie was supposed to cause “oh's” and “ah's” but I didn't see it. It felt forced into cause drama but just like Legend. You can't take it out of that true story because it is a true story and people would feel cheated. In the end, This movie was surprising. The setup went on a little too long and the writing was weak at times but besides that, beautiful. I'm giving this one a 6/10 (a positive 6/10).… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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4

marco34laDec 12, 2015

Even having seen the mediocre score on here, I decided to check the film out anyway. I like Chris H and thought... how bad could it be? Well, folks, it is that bad. It's a solid 4. It's a bit of a snooze-fest, nothing of note happens in theEven having seen the mediocre score on here, I decided to check the film out anyway. I like Chris H and thought... how bad could it be? Well, folks, it is that bad. It's a solid 4. It's a bit of a snooze-fest, nothing of note happens in the first 1/3 of the movie. The visuals are weird - some shots look like you're watching a 3d film without the glasses - fuzzy and distorted. The 2nd third of the movie was ok, some action etc... but you don't really care about any of these characters. The 3rd part has about 4 different endings. It's just keeps going and going and going. Intermixed throughout is the cliched storyteller. No one cares about the storyteller - it aint interesting nor exciting. Very disappointed.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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3

ahnehnoisDec 11, 2015

I think what's so insulting about this movie is that it presents itself as the real story on which the fictional novel Moby Dick was based, and yet this story is fictionalized as well, often in pointless and overly conventional ways.

TheI think what's so insulting about this movie is that it presents itself as the real story on which the fictional novel Moby Dick was based, and yet this story is fictionalized as well, often in pointless and overly conventional ways.

The film trumps up a competition between captain and first mate that goes nowhere and creates ridiculous and unnecessary foreshadowing, before leading to a downright comical conclusion. If you believe historical accounts, it is true that this ship was sunk by a whale, but the notion that the whale stalked the crew for weeks thereafter is ludicrous, let alone the shred of humanity the filmmakers tried to imbue in it.

Moreover, none of the actors are believably Bostonian whalers and the CGI isn't very good either (I saw it in IMAX 3D so I'm not getting cheated there). Even in 2015, fake water still looks like fake water. And the nastiness of being stranded is painfully obscured by the PG-13 rating, though you can look forward to some unpleasant whaling footage.

Perhaps the worst sin is that they missed out on the true story. The survivalism of the crew is fascinating, but is compressed into a few scenes. An anecdote about the crew burning down an entire island by accident, a golden cinematic opportunity, isn't in the film at all, nor are some of their other adventures. Thinly drawn trope characters are allowed to replace whatever genuine story inspired Melville to write his famous novel. Time is wasted on using Melville as a framing device. Though, in truth, the whole movie ends up being a waste of time.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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1

TheKavehJDec 12, 2015

In The Heart Of The Sea tries so hard to entertain the viewer, but all it brings is a sloppy attempt at a true story. The two hour film feels like forever, and is such a bore.

1 of 10 users found this helpful19

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6

TheQuietGamerMay 12, 2016

It's a good, true story. However one that's enjoyable elements are strictly tied/limited to the whale(s). The other stuff which includes tension between the captain and first mate, Herman Melville interviewing the last survivor of theIt's a good, true story. However one that's enjoyable elements are strictly tied/limited to the whale(s). The other stuff which includes tension between the captain and first mate, Herman Melville interviewing the last survivor of the disaster, and some character moments all fall short. They aren't enough to sink the ship, but they do make for less than smooth sailing.

It's hard to get into at first. I didn't care about the characters so when much of the film's opening consists of introducing us to these characters it's hard for the mind to not wander. Then the first whale shows up and things turn around. The characters themselves still aren't interesting, but their adventure begins to find some life. We get a fascinating look at whaling and some visually stunning creatures. The ocean and the whales that call it home are gorgeous here. It's that visual splendor and hardships the crew suffers because of them that carries the film back to port, even if worse for wear.

We have seen these survival elements before, so there is a sense of familiarity to it all. However that doesn't make the depiction of being stranded at see any less harrowing, especially with a gorgeous, massive whale making things harder for them at every turn.

It's a beautiful and occasionally boring survival story. One that never quite gets any morals out there. However the whales bring a dose of life to the film to keep in from being dragged to the depths of Davy Jones' Locker. The fact that it's a true story also helps. For land lovers this isn't going to be the cruise ship you're looking for, but for those with a love for the sea it's worth setting out to sea. Even if it's little better than a rowboat at times.

6.2/10… Expand

0 of 3 users found this helpful03

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5

CineAutoctonoFeb 25, 2016

"In the Heart of the Sea" was a film that tells what has not been told of " Moby Dick" , half of the film was very boring , but the performance of Chris Hemsworth was the one that stood out.

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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6

RafterianDec 18, 2015

A movie where Thor meets Moby Dick meets Whale Wars meets Jaws meets an Unfortunate title is a movie I should have waited for Netflix to watch. See Krampus not Whale Wors 3D

0 of 4 users found this helpful04

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7

RatedRexMay 1, 2016

Great story, great special effects, great sets, costumes, production design and sound editing. Why didn't this movie get more Oscar consideration for these awards. Actually, the biggest problem with the film is that the white whaleGreat story, great special effects, great sets, costumes, production design and sound editing. Why didn't this movie get more Oscar consideration for these awards. Actually, the biggest problem with the film is that the white whale encounter isn't dramatic or terrifying enough. The original 'Moby Dick" with Gregory Peck did a better job of conveying the terror of confronting a monster whale. However I still recommend it. Its better than you think.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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1

RachelDragonSep 5, 2016

I hate this movie. I love Ron Howard but this was terrible. I felt nothing for the humans and was rooting for the whales. I enjoyed when bad things happened to the people.

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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7

drlowdonJun 7, 2016

In the Heart of the Sea has a few pacing problems and never quite reaches the heights it potentially could but, thanks to some top notch performances from the cast and fantastic special effects, it makes for an entertaining couple of hours.