Flight 93

Not to be confused with the highly acclaimed theatrical release United 93, this made-for-cable film tells the same tragic but inspiring story of the September 11, 2001 hijacking of United Airlines Flight 93 by Islamic terrorists who planned to fly the plane into an unnamed Washington, DC target—most likely the Capitol Building. Based on a compilation of the available facts and a reconstruction of the likely sequence of events, Flight 93 chronicles the attempt of passengers to thwart the hijackers' plan, knowing full well that their effort could result in the deaths of everyone onboard. As the doomed Americans contact their loved ones from cell phones, making their heartbreaking goodbyes, government officials discuss the nightmare scenario of shooting down the plane if it comes too close to Washington. Although the actors are experienced professionals with numerous TV and feature-film credits to their names, director Peter Markle and the producers wisely chose to avoid easily recognizable players in order to keep the film from becoming a “star” vehicle and distracting audience attention away from the real-life drama. As suspenseful and gut-wrenching as any contrived Hollywood melodrama, Flight 93 pays homage to the brave Americans who sacrificed their lives on 9/11 to prevent an even greater tragedy, offering a sober, dignified tribute to their courage. Recommended. (E. Hulse)