Sully

In an age dominated by superheroes and special effects, it’s nice to see a big-screen saga about old-fashioned human heroism every once in a while. But Sully is not that story.

Rather, it’s a taut and complex examination of how heroes are defined and celebrated during a time of rampant cynicism and media scrutiny set in New York in January 2009, on the day that a commercial airliner suffering from engine failure was guided into the Hudson River by a quick-thinking veteran pilot, sparing the lives of everyone aboard.

However, director Clint Eastwood isn’t interested in a conventional re-enactment of the headlines nor in a traditional biopic of the captain, Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger, but rather in a more vivid and intimate glimpse into the buildup and aftermath of the crash, both inside and outside the cockpit.

As a refresher, the plane in question had just taken off from LaGuardia Airport when a flock of birds knocked out both wing engines. Sully (Tom Hanks) judged that he didn’t have enough power to return to the runway, so he glided into the frigid river, prompting a frantic rescue effort.

Afterward, Sully experiences residual nightmares and is investigated for his actions from the National Transportation Safety Board — threatening his livelihood and stellar reputation as he nears retirement — despite being labeled as a hero by the worldwide media.

At 86, Eastwood’s sense of pacing and visual composition is as keen as ever. That’s especially true in the vivid intimacy of the extended plane-crash sequence and the ensuing rescue effort make it riveting, even if many viewers already know the basic outcome.

The nonlinear screenplay by Todd Komarnicki, based on Sullenberger’s memoir, struggles to keep its focus at times, especially when the action is on the ground as opposed to air or water. Yet what Sully lacks in context or insight, it compensates with well-researched details that convey the calm demeanor and subsequent emotional turmoil of its subject.

Sporting white hair, Hanks offers a terrific portrayal of a man whose resolve under pressure exemplified his commitment to his job and reluctance to assume the spotlight.

As for the question of heroics, the film makes its stance clear, and thrusts a proverbial middle finger at anyone who would question the actions of Sully, the first responders or the passengers. Still, the film’s even-handed avoidance of simple hagiography is what allows it to soar.

Rated PG-13, 96 minutes.