Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Not Without Hope Opens to Measured Reviews Emphasizing Immersive Sea Survival

Early reviews spotlight immersive Malta water‑tank realism with a respectful treatment of real loss.

Overview

  • Joe Carnahan’s film, adapted from the non-fiction book about a 2009 Gulf boating disaster, opened in theaters on December 12.
  • Zachary Levi stars as survivor Nick Schuyler alongside Quentin Plair, Terrence Terrell, and Marshall Cook, portraying the friends lost at sea.
  • Critics commend the water-level cinematography, practical ocean work, and sound design for creating an enveloping survival experience.
  • Reviews frequently cite drawbacks in some CGI storm wides and in structural cutaways to Coast Guard and homefront scenes, with debate over Levi’s performance.
  • Levi described the shoot’s emotional intensity as mildly traumatic, underscoring the cast’s focus on honoring the real people depicted.