Crowe is joined by Paul Bettany who plays Captain Aubrey’s best friend Stephen Maturin. The film was acclaimed, particularly by fans of the book series, which is as fine as historical fiction can get.
The film is revered for its realistic and detailed depiction of eighteenth century naval life. The ship’s camaraderie is brilliantly displayed as well as the hierarchy that informed all naval life during the Glorious Days of Sale.
The plot involves Aubrey’s ship that comes under attack by a French ship. The cat and mouse game on the high seas ensues. Fans will be riveted by twists and turns of this film and heartened by the courage that the men face in the line of duty. The cinematography of the film is outstanding.
Viewers will love the scenery of the Galapagos Islands as well as the storms at sea. In fact, the film won an Academy Award for Best Cinematography. For this reason alone it’s worth watching, but the plot and performances are utterly captivating.