The Terminal

Starring: Tom Hanks, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Stanley Tucci, Chi McBride, Zoe Saldana
Directed by: Steven Spielberg
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Comedy
2004

Times Seen:
Tim: 2

Summary: Victor Navorski (Tom Hanks) arrives in an airport in New York. While in the air, a revolution occurred in his Eastern Europe homeland. He becomes a man without a country- unable to enter U.S. soil, and unable to leave the airport. Thus, he sets up an uneasy existence living in the terminal, much to the chagrin the of airport's Customs Agent(Stanley Tucci). Victor tries to adapt to his new home, and he meets a beautiful but troubled stewardess (Catherine Zeta-Jones) who wants to help him escape.

Review:

Tim: This is a comedy with a lot of positives but a few powerful flaws that hurt it quite a bit. When dealing with Tom Hanks living in an airport terminal, Director Steven Spielberg and Hanks show their genius. These are by far the funniest and most enjoyable scenes of the movie. If the whole film was as good as these scenes, this movie would have been incredible. Unfortunately, the plot is paper thin in some areas. Here is where the film breaks down. The revelation of Hanks' reason to come to New York is a little bit weak and not handled properly- it could have been much more meaningful.

Hanks, as always, is brilliant. He is so fun to watch- every movement and action is fascinating. He is very enjoyable in the role and he has a few chances to really showcase his talent.

Catherine Zeta-Jones is a disappointment. Her character is weak and she couldn't do much with the role. I like her paired with Hanks, but she makes no impact in the film at all, and her part of the plot detracts greatly from the overall feeling of the film.

This is a movie about a man living in an airport. Spielberg explores this idea fully and Hanks brings the experience a sense of humanity and truth. This isn't the strongest comedy, but it is enjoyable and well with your time. With the combined talents of Spielberg and Hanks, you just expected a little bit more.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating- 6.5


If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: Splash, Cast Away, The Ladykillers, Forrest Gump