Clint Eastwood’s 2016 film, Sully, has recently experienced a resurgence in popularity on streaming services nearly a decade after its initial release. The movie, starring Tom Hanks and Aaron Eckhart, chronicles the heroic emergency landing of Chesley Sullenberger’s plane on the Hudson River, which saved all passengers and crew on board. Currently streaming on HBO Max in the United States, Sully has climbed the charts worldwide as one of the most-watched videos on demand films, underscoring its lasting appeal despite being labeled a “disaster” biopic.
Critically, the film was well-received, earning an 85% approval rating from critics and 84% from audiences on Rotten Tomatoes. It also performed strongly at the box office, grossing $243 million globally against a modest $60 million budget. This commercial and critical success reflects the film’s compelling storytelling and Eastwood’s reputation as a master filmmaker.
Clint Eastwood’s Esteemed Career Leading to Sully’s Enduring Legacy
Eastwood’s directing career spans decades, and Sully remains a significant entry before he slowed his work behind the camera. After the film’s release, Eastwood directed five more movies before stepping back, including The 15:17 to Paris with Judy Greer and Jenna Fischer, and the thriller Richard Jewell featuring Paul Walter Hauser. He also directed and played lead roles in The Mule and Cry Macho, the latter co-starring Dwight Yoakam.
Before Sully, Eastwood directed the acclaimed war drama American Sniper, starring Bradley Cooper as Navy SEAL Chris Kyle. His filmography also includes critically lauded works like Million Dollar Baby, Letters from Iwo Jima, and Unforgiven, all of which cement his legacy in Hollywood. The staying power of Sully on streaming charts highlights Eastwood’s ability to craft stories that resonate over time.
Availability of Eastwood’s Other Classic Films on Streaming Services
While Sully enjoys a streaming revival, some of Eastwood’s other major films are less accessible on these platforms. For example, Million Dollar Baby, his 2004 boxing drama starring Hilary Swank and Morgan Freeman, is currently unavailable for streaming but can be rented or purchased on services like Prime Video and Fandango at Home. This film garnered four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director, and earned the praise of both critics and audiences, holding a 90% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
The renewed attention on Sully invites viewers to revisit Eastwood’s body of work and appreciate his craftsmanship. For fans and newcomers alike, it offers an opportunity to explore the director’s impactful films, with updated access through modern digital platforms.
Notable Cast Behind Sully’s Success
The film’s lead performance by Tom Hanks as Chesley Sullenberger anchors the story emotionally, alongside Aaron Eckhart playing First Officer Jeff Skiles. Their portrayals contributed significantly to the film’s popularity and critical acclaim, drawing audiences into the tense, true-life events of the cockpit drama.
With Sully securing a top spot on video-on-demand charts worldwide and streaming on HBO Max in the U.S., it remains a standout example of how a well-crafted disaster biopic can continue captivating viewers years after its release.
