This is a fairly good film. As I write in the title, it is a very good cast & plot. Til Schweiger, Thomas Kretchman & William H. Macy are excellent. Unfortunately, Scott Caan is miscast, and it shows. It is not his fault. He is much better in a comedic role, like "Oceans Eleven". It would have been better if another actor had been cast as the captain. The other issue I have is this: The first half of the film, men a dropping like flies with Spinal Meningitis. In the second half, it's as if no one was ever sick. These two things severely hamper the authenticity of the film. Its a shame. A tweak here and thete, and this could have been much better. I would give it a 5.5, so I rounded up to 6. By far and away, the greatest submarine film is the epic German film, "Das Boot" (1982). It is a true story. Juergen Prochnow is absolutely perfect as the Captain. At well over 4 hours long, it is both thrilling and terrifying. Director Wolfgang Peterson did an absolutely brilliant job with his film. It is the most authentic submarine film ever made. Brilliant casting, direction, cinematography and (practical) special effects. The DVD has a terrific "Making of" documentary, as well. Not bloopers or goofs. When they dive, the men run to the front of the boat. It is a must see film. As far as this film goes, it's worth a watch, but I would not rent it. Watch "Das Boot" instead. It made defining careers for Prochnow and especially director Wolfgang Peterson. Both went on to make excellent films in Hollywood.
Review of In Enemy Hands
