Quartile rating: 7.5/10 · 1 rating
Against formidable odds -- and an old-school diving instructor embittered by the U.S. Navy's new, less prejudicial policies -- Carl Brashear sets his sights on becoming the Navy's first African-American master diver in this uplifting true story. Their relationship starts out on the rocks, but fate ultimately conspires to bring the men together into a setting of mutual respect, triumph and honor.
Men of Honor is a solid, earnest true-story drama elevated significantly by powerhouse performances from Cuba Gooding Jr. and Robert De Niro, whose chemistry and commitment carry the film well beyond its formulaic underdog-triumph structure. The plot follows a well-worn inspirational biopic template — racial barriers, dogged perseverance, triumphant vindication — without much narrative surprise. Cinematography is competent and period-appropriate but unremarkable. Novelty is low; the film is a by-the-numbers inspirational sports/military drama, and while the specific milieu of Navy deep-sea diving is somewhat fresh, the storytelling beats are entirely predictable. The ending is emotionally satisfying but expected, landing the uplift it telegraphs from the opening.