White Squall (1996)

Great movie

Great movie. You don't see much of Scott Wolf anymore but the movie is great and all of the actors made you a part of the story.
I recommend it if you like movies set on the ocean or boats. I guess it is also a god disaster movie too. September 1, 2008

Good in many ways

The movie tells the true story of a group of boys finishing high school on board a sailing ship in the early 60's. It's a coming of age film in a sense and there is the requisite high jinks and conflict that must fill in the gaps of an otherwise thoughtful journey that must come to a dramatic climax.

Most everything comes together nicely and if you like the ocean, sailing ships or going on a journey into the unknown, you would do well to see this movie. Nothing too silly or gratuitous.

The original music is very nice and even haunting at times.

As you watch it, think of a journey you want to take and let it inspire you to make it so. The opening sequence with Scott Wolf doing the voiceover and setting the stage for what is yet to come is simple, but compelling as he embarks upon his quest for meaning.

The ending with Jeff Bridges and the final summation by Wolf is powerful. It's a story of change and who among us can't identify with that.

Finally, enjoy the very appropriately chosen tune by Sting called "Valparaiso" as the credits roll.



August 29, 2008

Great story of courage, boys becoming men and sailing

I rented this movie many years ago and bought it from Amazon with "Wind" which is another great sailing movie. White Squall is a good family movie telling the story of a group of boys who learn to work as a team, find courage and learn the life of a sailor. Highly recommend. August 28, 2008

Not A Good Fit For 16:9 TVs

The picture and sound quality are excellent, but the widescreen version is the worst fit for a 16:9 television screen I've come across. It doesn't go all the way to the edge without stretching it and no matter how I fiddle with the aspect ratio on the television, it just doesn't work right. No other widescreen film on dvd have I had this sort of problem with, it's just a bit TOO letterboxed. April 11, 2008

Wonderful Movie!

Two things really struck me about this film: the sea action was beautifully filmed, and the development of the characters was well done. This, more than any other movie I've seen, shows what being on a windjammer in the open sea must be like. There's lots of action footage of actual heavy seas as well as excellent special effects. The changes the kids, who truly become young men, go through are very well done. Knowing that this is a true story makes it particularly compelling. February 10, 2008

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