By Joe Esposito
In December 2004, an Indian Ocean tsunami devastated numerous coastal countries and took thousands of lives. The Impossible, starring Ewan McGregor, Naomi Watts and Tom Holland, tells the true story of a family’s quest for survival following the natural disaster.
The film brings viewers to a familiar setting: spending a holiday on vacation with family, with this particular one taking place in Thailand. Parents Maria and Henry, along with their three young boys Lucas, Thomas and Simon, are a lovable bunch to whom you will certainly become attached. I know I did when I watched this movie for the first time.
Like any good movie, the film spends time introducing viewers to the family and setting the stage as they enjoy their Christmas vacation in Thailand. Everyone is having the time of their life until disaster strikes and a tsunami leaves the island in utter ruins. The family members get greatly injured and separated from each other. The remainder of the film focuses on the family’s quest of regrouping and surviving. I will leave the end result for you to watch for yourselves. What I want to share with you is why this movie truly deserves a watch. It is not just an action and adventure movie; it is something bigger. It is an illustration of the power of doing good and helping others.
The first time that viewers experience this phenomenon is when Maria and Lucas are trying to get to safety after the tsunami hits. They hear a young child, who seems to be nearby, crying out for help. Not knowing what more is to come, they decide to risk their own safety and look for him. They eventually find, rescue and bring a young boy trapped under some rubble, rescue him back with him as they seek safety. This act of putting others before yourself, even when the person is a complete stranger, is an inspiring illustration of goodness.
Not long after this event, a group of Thai natives find Maria, whose injuries have worsened, and help her seek medical attention. They don’t speak the same language, but they know she needs help and take her to a hospital as fast as they can. They even sing to her in Thai to comfort her. This illustrates the ripple effect of helping others, for it was not long after Maria helped someone that others helped her.
Finally, at a point when Maria and Lucas are in a large medical facility, Lucas finds people who are looking for their family members as well. He takes down various names and runs through the hospital, trying to find missing people and reunite families. In the midst of a disaster, one may find this act of service difficult to do. However, Lucas rises above expectations and in a touching moment, helps reunite a father with his son.
The Impossible certainly can be considered an adventure movie, with great special effects and moments of suspense. What I enjoy so much about it though, and why I would recommend it, is the positive illustration of humanity it shows. In today’s world of division and strife, we could all use a pick-me-up. I promise you, your faith in humanity will be restored.
