Released on Feb. 9, “The 15:17 to Paris” tells an extremely moving story made even more memorable by its actors.
Recreating the true story of three American soldiers who fight to stop an attacker from unleashing 300 rounds of ammunition on a train to Paris in 2015, the train’s true heroes acted their own roles in this film.
Directed by the renowned Clint Eastwood and based on the book, “The 15:17 to Paris: The True Story of a Terrorist, a Train and Three American Soldiers,” the film had extreme potential to be a cinematic masterpiece but felt somewhat short of what it could have been.
This short-falling was not because the plot was anything but brilliant and moving — the film only lacked in the ability of its actors, who were not true actors, but everyday men tasked with re-creating one of their most life-changing moments.
Playing themselves, the heroes Spencer Stone, Anthony Sadler and Alek Skarlatos gave the film much more meaning but were not able to provide Hollywood style acting.
If you are a type of person who does not mind this type of acting or you just do not notice it then the film will be just as enjoyable as any other.
Personally, if I would not have known they were not Hollywood actors, I might not have questioned their talents.
Even with the amateur cast. the film was still extremely heartfelt and respectable.
“The 15:17 to Paris” was not suspenseful or extremely mind-numbing, but it was true — and that is what gave the film life and meaning.
The actors were able to be themselves, literally, and the story was not fabricated or seemingly played-up.
The film was, instead, honest. It revealed the names, faces and the stories of three heroes that were willing to sacrifice their lives to save the other passengers on train 15:17.
Looking down on this movie would be nearly impossible because it did something incredible that is almost never seen in Hollywood films.
Get content from The Daily Lobo delivered to your inbox
This film has just as much meaning but is a much calmer theater experience than most action or drama movies.
“The 15:17 to Paris” is worth seeing. If not in theaters, definitely at home, as it showcases true heroism and bravery.
Timber Mabes is a culture reporter at the Daily Lobo. She can be contacted at culture@dailylobo.com or on Twitter @timbermabes.
