Mel Snyder

One of the most amazing, sensitive films I’ve ever seen. You learn so much about the challenge of going through life with deaf-mute disability, and you see its impact on both family and community. The few moments when you are personally plunged into their world is transformative and shocking. A must-see for all.

For those of us who were in our 20s when she was on top, this is a remarkable film. Frankly, her personal life on which so much of the film focuses was a complete mystery to me, and I had to scan her Wikipedia bio to check how true to life the film is. I am sad to learn of her last years and struggles, and her recent passing. This film honors her contribution - and as such, is not judged solely on its creative and acting authenticity. Thus, my 5 star rating.

I find it amusing how many people have panned this movie without even watching it. This was one of the best naval war movies I have ever seen. I’m a WW2 tech-lover and the accuracy of so many scenes really touched me. The major gaff by the writers - and perhaps consistent with the book - was the failure of the captain played by Hanks to be aware that U-boats traveled in packs, and much like cockroaches, finding one means you’re infested. The script at the end communicates this was the captain’s first escort - but that was a grave tactical miss that should not have been written. Still, Hanks gives a highly credible performance, certainly consistent with the one he offered in Apollo 11. It was a solid 80 rotten tomatoes in my estimation. Well worth watching, if only for the fascinating navigational maneuvers that were - in my estimation - among the very best in any dramatic production I’ve ever seen.