4/5 stars

Directed by Robert Zemeckis (with an eclectic portfolio including Cast Away and The Polar Express), Flight is a brilliant character study of an alcoholic that takes off with a tension filled flight and lands with an emotional and tear-jerking conclusion.

Although many films tackle the delicate issue of alcoholism, Flight does so with an intriguing and original story. Of course there are the usual clichés, but for the most part it takes you in such unexpected directions that the conclusion remains a mystery throughout. It is not an entirely redemptive tale, making it all the more realistic. Furthermore, it is tense, with a terrifying crash scene that is so graphic you will never want to fly again!

Central to the film is the riveting performance from Denzel Washington. He plays his role so convincingly you forget it is a performance, and that is what acting is all about. However, the film appears to have the aim of ensuring you are on Washington’s side despite his character constantly letting you down, yet for me he was unlikeable. Furthermore, Kelly Reilly’s heroin addict was an underdeveloped character, with little screen time meaning she went to waste.

Flight is a thoughtful and entertaining film, with a promisingly Oscar-worthy performance from Washington.

Emily Murray