If you're a fan of gripping, character-driven dramas, there's a gem waiting for you on Pluto TV this September. Denzel Washington's Flight, directed by Robert Zemeckis, is now available to stream for free in the United States. It's a film that earned Washington an Oscar nomination and reminded audiences of his incredible range.
Flight tells the story of Whip Whitaker, a skilled pilot who miraculously lands a malfunctioning plane, saving nearly everyone on board. But his heroics quickly come under scrutiny as investigators look into his conduct, and it's revealed that he was under the influence during the flight. Washington delivers a towering performance as a man battling his demons, a role that earned him a well-deserved Best Actor nomination.
The film also features a standout supporting cast, including John Goodman as the protagonist's drug dealer, Bruce Greenwood, Don Cheadle, and Kelly Reilly, who you might recognize from Yellowstone. Goodman's performance is a memorable one, though it was largely overlooked at the time, even as the film itself made headlines for its powerful storytelling.
For Zemeckis, Flight marked a return to live-action filmmaking after a decade spent experimenting with performance capture in films like The Polar Express and Beowulf. It was a throwback to the kind of adult-oriented, dramatic thrillers that were becoming rare, and it remains one of his most acclaimed works. With a 77% "Certified Fresh" score on Rotten Tomatoes, the consensus praises it as "a thoughtful and provocative character study propelled by a compelling performance from Denzel Washington."
Produced on a budget of $31 million, Flight soared at the box office, grossing over $160 million worldwide. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of a well-crafted story and a star at the top of his game. Washington has since gone on to earn three more Oscar nominations for Fences, Roman J. Israel, Esq., and The Tragedy of Macbeth, but Flight remains a standout in his filmography.
If you're in the mood for a tense, thought-provoking thriller, Flight is a perfect choice. And if you're looking for more recommendations in the genre, check out our list of thrillers that refuse to let go or explore why David Fincher's Mindhunter remains the gold standard. For more Denzel Washington, you might also enjoy his crime thriller The Little Things, which dominated Netflix last month.
So grab some popcorn, settle in, and watch Flight on Pluto TV. It's a cinematic experience you won't want to miss.
