Aftermath (2017)

Director: Elliott Lester

Starring: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Scoot McNairy, Maggie Grace

Two strangers’ lives become inextricably bound together after a devastating plane crash.

Based on fact, the film revolves around the aftermath of two planes colliding in mid air. A series of seemingly trivial events lead to the disaster, which claimed 271 lives (in reality it was only 71).

The film effectively shows the harsh reality of the aftermath of a plane crash, and an air traffic controller’s dilemma of coming to terms with what happened – and the effects it has on those around him. Scoot McNairy is excellent as Jake, the air traffic controller. My gosh, he was fantastic! And – just like in ‘Maggie’ – Arnold Schwarzenegger delivers a powerful performance, proving once again that he is much more than just an action superstar. He stars as Roman, a man who lost his wife and pregnant daughter in the disaster, and looking for an apology from the Airline. However, when they refuse and offer compensation instead, he decides to track down the air traffic controller who is being blamed for the accident.

‘Aftermath’ is an emotional, well made film, but it can be depressing. As the title indicates, the film deals with the emotions of victims of the tragedy – both the father and the air traffic controller, who is a victim of circumstance. This is a realistic film that will linger with you long after having watched it.

Would I watch it again? I somehow don’t think so.