“The Finest Hours” is a riveting movie in its telling of the true story of a rescue mission at sea in 1952. The special effects, which focus on the imperiled tanker at sea and the rescue boat that is sent out to their aid in a raging storm, are executed with movie-making skill. The tanker has been cut in half and can only stay afloat for a short time. In the film, Bernie Webber (Chris Pine) departs in the rescue boat after being newly engaged to Miriam (Hollliday Grainger). The human stories are what capture the audiences’ imagination in addition to the amazing special effects of the small rescue boat trying to overcome the rising waves of the “bar.” The film is rife with tension.

Based on the incredible true story, “The Finest Hours” opens its story in November 1951, and the costumes, sets, and props all lend authenticity to the movie. The movie’s 3-D version is outstanding, as you actually feel as if in you’re in the snowstorm, with snowflakes blowing near your face. However, despite the stellar cast and suspenseful plot, the movie crosses our guidelines in the use of harsh language and, therefore, prevents us from awarding it our Dove “Family-Approved” Seal.