Adrift, released on June 1st, is a movie based on the true story of Tami Oldham and Richard Sharp who were sailing across the world when everything suddenly changed. 

I really cannot give any details, because it will give away the movie. It is plot-driven and full of twists, so saying what happens lessens the shock. Because the film is based on a real story, the less you know, the better. 

When I originally saw the trailer, it seemed interesting. Then, I got an opportunity to see it. 

By the time the movie was over, I was holding back tears and was ready to clap (though I always laugh at others for doing so because it seems so corny. But there’s no shame). And I wondered why there hadn’t been anticipation for this movie. 

The love story at first made me cringe, because it was a little cheesy and so different from how I usually enjoy seeing characters fall in love. It was simple and realistic, very adult-like, and kind of random. It wasn’t all magical and glamorized. But Shailene Woodley and Sam Claflin did an amazing job of portraying a beautiful relationship. We know both of these actors for their characters in dystopian movies, but it was nice to see them in roles like these. 

Adrift was to the point, with no faults in its pacing. I thought this kind of survival movie would be hours long, but it started at 7:03 and I was out by a little after 8:30.

The film followed the classic structure of showing you the right now, and explaining how we got there as the present day continues to unfold. Then, they wrapped up the movie by explaining the real-life story, and it was even more bittersweet to see the real Tami—she is doing better now, and her story made her stronger.

I haven’t been to the movies since the start of the year (except to see Black Panther, of course), so I was itching to go to the movies. Maybe that’s why it was extra beautiful, why it seemed so incredibly cinematic. 

Looking at these aspects, Adrift is the perfect movie. I was not jumping out my seat in excitement and invigoration, but I cried at the end. It has been a long time since I cried from a movie in theaters. I think a movie has done its job when it elicits these emotions as well.  

On another note, it was also refreshing to see a woman in a film who does everything on her own to survive out of pure will and strength. 

It is not a must-see if you are not in the mood for sad stories, but who would pass up a really good film?