Review of White Squall

Video

White Squall is a highly visual film, with much of the action taking place on the high seas. The locations used are shot using many aerial or wide camera positions which emphasises their beauty and remoteness. It is a true story, based on the memoirs of Charles Gieg (who tells the story - played by Scott Wolf), of the school ship `Albatross` which eventually founders in a heavy storm due to a freak rare wave condition known as a White Squall.

The 2:35:1 widescreen picture quality is very good, with a bright image throughout. Contrast is good, and images are pin sharp. 21 chapters divide the film.

Audio

The 5.1 soundtrack is used to the full during the storm sequences. Rear channels are used to the full in the scene where the sailing ship sinks beneath the waves. Isolation of the trapped people still on board is superbly conveyed to the viewer from the deep audio echoing around the room.

Features

The disk contains static menus. A featurette and a trailer is included, but the featurette could have been longer.

Conclusion

This film sadly did not do terribly well at the UK box office, which is a shame. It is directed by Ridley Scott (of Blade Runner and Alien fame) and based on a true story. It can`t really be described as a coming of age type drama, as there is much more to the story than this. The story is set in the 1960s and depicts the boys who get to sail round the world on the Albatross to build character and allow them to grow up. Jeff Bridges is cast as the skipper and owner of the ship, and Caroline Goodall plays his wife.

I really enjoyed this film when I first saw it on satellite TV. The DVD was well received, and my first opportunity to see it in full widescreen with the Dolby Digital sound. It is a moving story, and a worthwhile view.