‘United 93’ chills to the bone

Some pundits say it’s too soon for a film about the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001. I say it’s never too soon for an important movie. “United 93” is a very important film that everyone should see.

On that fateful day, terrorists hijacked four planes.

Three of those planes reached their targets. This movie tells the story of the fourth, United Airlines Flight 93, which missed its intended target and crashed into a field near Shanksville, Penn.

I’ve got to be honest. This was a difficult film to watch and I found myself reliving the events of that horrible day, but the director, Paul Greengrass, handles the material with class and precision. It’s still hard to believe that this really happened, and the story seems too far-fetched to be true, but unfortunately, it is.

I can only imagine what the families of the victims felt while watching the recreation of the last few hours of their loved ones’ lives.

Since the film is so well done, it actually feels like a documentary. One of the characters, Ben Sliney, is not an actor but the actual FAA employee who was in charge on Sept. 11. Sliney’s performance is remarkable and should garner him some awards. The rest of the performers are perfectly cast and their acting draws you in deeper into the story.

“United 93” is not a feel-good movie. There is no happy ending and watching the film wears you out. Many people at my screening were crying and visibly shaken when the picture ended after 111 minutes.

The film takes place in real time and this adds suspense because you already know everyone’s fate.

The events of Sept. 11 have affected everyone differently. The movie is based on the 9/11 Commission Report and individual interviews with family members.

The filmmakers do not dive into any “conspiracy theories” that are running wild on the Internet. No matter what you believe, I think you should see “United 93” so you can form your own opinion about this terrible event.

This is an adult film but teenagers should be encouraged to take a break from video games and fast-food to see a fascinating motion picture.

I believe it’s important we never forget what happened on Sept. 11. If you feel the same way, you must watch this movie.