(This is Daren’s review, forthcoming in the September issue of Carolina Journal, of Oliver Stone’s take on 9/11 — Paul Chesser)
There are no political statements or conspiracies in this well-crafted film. When Oliver Stone is associated with a movie, this is a relevant concern. Instead, Stone helps to tell the real-life story of two Port Authority police officers (played by Nicholas Cage & Michael Pena) that survived the collapse of the first tower.
The film takes us into the rubble as both officers try to find a way to stave off death. A movie couldn?t be sustained though by focusing on the two officers alone. The movie also explores the impact that the events are having on the officers? families.
By focusing on a narrow set of characters and their specific experiences, the film risks not putting the events of 9/11 in context. Some critics have pointed out that this decision makes the film feel no different than any other rescue film. However, this risk pays off.
There certainly is enough conveyed about 9/11, and it is a fair assumption that the audience doesn?t need to be constantly reminded of those day?s events.
Stone?s smartest decision is following the actions of characters that selflessly made their way down to the WTC to assist in any way they could. Ultimately, this is what ?World Trade Center? is about: a film exploring the ?positives? of 9/11, if that is even possible.
It is a moving, albeit sometimes slow, exploration of how people can come together even when faced with tragedy.
