Adrift (2018) is a survival drama film directed by Baltasar KormΓ‘kur, based on the true story of Tami Oldham Ashcraft and her experience of surviving a disastrous sailing trip. The film stars Shailene Woodley as Tami and Sam Claflin as Richard Sharp. The narrative focuses on Tami’s harrowing journey to survive after a catastrophic storm leaves her stranded in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, with limited resources and a damaged boat.
The story begins in 1983, when Tami, a young and adventurous woman, is traveling the world. She meets Richard, a seasoned sailor, and the two develop a romantic relationship. Richard convinces Tami to join him on a sailing voyage from Tahiti to California, which seems like an idyllic adventure. However, their plans take a tragic turn when they are caught in a massive hurricane that leaves their boat severely damaged and stranded in open water.
Tami, who has limited sailing experience, finds herself in a desperate struggle for survival. Richard is badly injured in the storm, leaving Tami to take charge of the situation and navigate the wrecked boat toward safety. The film alternates between Tami’s present-day fight for survival and flashbacks of her time with Richard before the storm, showing their developing relationship and the moments that shaped their bond. As Tami faces the challenges of hunger, dehydration, and the vast, unforgiving ocean, she must also come to terms with the emotional and psychological toll of the situation.
Adrift is a tense, character-driven survival film that highlights the power of human resilience and the will to survive. The performances of Shailene Woodley and Sam Claflin are central to the film’s emotional impact. Woodley, in particular, is praised for her portrayal of Tami, capturing both the physical and emotional challenges of surviving alone in the ocean. The flashbacks between Tami and Richard provide emotional depth, making the tragedy of their situation all the more poignant.
The film is visually stunning, with beautiful cinematography that contrasts the serene, expansive beauty of the ocean with the terrifying isolation and danger Tami faces. The depiction of the storm and its aftermath is intense, with the chaos and destruction of the hurricane conveying the immense power of nature. The scenes of Tami attempting to repair the boat, navigate the ocean, and stay alive are gripping, as the stakes grow higher with each passing day.
Adrift also explores themes of love, loss, and survival, focusing not only on the physical challenges Tami faces but also the emotional toll of being alone in such a dire situation. The film captures her inner strength and determination, as she continues to fight for her life, even when all hope seems lost.