Everyday, people go through the motions and sidestep minor obstacles that come their way. Sometimes the challenges faced seem insurmountable, even by the most optimistic of people. The story of Tami Oldham and Richard Sharp is not one that is widely known in most circles. It is the unknown that will make Adrift that much more of a compelling movie to watch. Being a part of this harrowing journey will have audiences eager to learn the final outcome.
The year is 1983 where Tami (Shailene Woodley) is a young American with nothing to tie her down. She’s enjoying life by traveling the world and taking what fate has to offer her. Young Tami has settled down, at least for a bit, in Tahiti when she catches the eye of a British boater named Richard (Sam Claflin). Richard soon breaks the ice by inviting Tami to dinner. The two hit off instantly as they start to learn more about one another. Both being traveling free spirits sets them up for a journey that will change their lives forever. When an opportunity arises that would allow the couple to sail 4,000 to San Diego on a boat much nicer than two of them could afford, all while spending quality time doing what they both love together while being paid handsomely…well, how could anyone decline that offer?
Fate would have different plans for our two star-struck lovers as they cross paths with a sudden fierce and deadly storm. It is when all hope seems to be lost that human will must stand tall to conquer all. Over the next 40+ days, the story of Tami and Richard will reach legendary status. Adrift is a true story of love, loss and perseverance.
Director Baltasar Kormákur does an admirable job of turning the memoir that Tami Oldham wrote, Red Sky in Mourning, into a movie while keeping the story gripping and entertaining throughout. The way that Kormákur achieves success in this case is by starting the movie after the hurricane while filling in the backstory with many flashbacks. This allows audiences to become immediately invested in this story while also giving them time to catch their collective breath as the backdrop is painted. A completely linear story would have led to some definite disappointment so bravo to this time for taking the less direct path.
Aside from the factual events of the story itself, it is Shailene Woodley’s polarizing portrayal of Tami Oldham that is the anchor of the story. While being a decent actor to-date, Woodley hasn’t done much to really standout aside from her performance in The Descendants (2011). And it’s not that she’s been bad or anything, it’s just that her roles haven’t allowed her to show the true potential of what she can do. Adrift gives her the stage and spotlight and she does not squander her opportunity. Audiences will feel every bit of her struggle as this story unfolds.
I personally went into this biopic with heavy skepticism of how the story would be presented and if they would try to really “Hollywood” it up. As it turns out, Adrift is grounded and on point. Yes, there are some egregiously blatant foreshadowing moments but the story and its core values are not lost nor are they sacrificed for the sake of making something that be flashy or overly dramatic. While not perfect in every way, this is a real story that your interest and heart can get behind. You can see Adrift in theaters now.
