To provide some background, In The Heart of the Sea is a movie from 2016 starring Chris Hemsworth, Cillian Murphy, and a host of other great actors. It is about the whaling trip that inspired the book Moby Dick. It was generally ignored upon release and had a muted reception from critics, but honestly, I really enjoy it.
First off, there are very few movies like it. Modern movies like this aren’t really seen often. Maybe All Is Lost or Adrift would be a good comparison, but either way movies set on a boat of this caliber aren’t seen often.
Second, Ron Howard directs the shit out of the movie. he gives the movie intensity while also looking at the seediness of whaling, especially in the 1820s. With the help of his cinematographer and whoever did the visual effects he creates an engaging tale that looks gorgeous.
Finally, the performers. Chris Hemsworth is an incredibly under-appreciated actor. Many don’t realize that he has major dramatic chops as well. He feels seasoned and gives the role a certain dignity that most actors can’t deliver. Not to mention Brendan Gleason, who is just so intense it’s almost scary.
So yeah, I really enjoy the movie, and I highly recommend you check it out!