America’s Dad Tom Hanks has nestled quite nicely into the late stage of his storied career, as he has consistently turned in quality performances in films like “The Post,” “Sully,” and “Bridge of Spies.” The thing is, these films are often characterized as “dad movies” – historically based stories of heroism that appeal to older generations (though I myself find them quite enjoyable). While his turn as Fred Rogers in “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood” is something of a deviation from this pattern, Hanks seems to be settling even further into his niche with “Greyhound.”
Adapted by Hanks himself from C.S. Forester’s novel “The Good Shepherd,” “Greyhound” tells the story of the fictional Ernest Krause, a U.S. Navy commander who leads a convoy of American ships across the Atlantic during World War II while being pursued by Nazi U-Boats. Hank’s particular brand of stoic patriotism in the face of injustice should translate well here, and with him behind the screenplay as well as in front of the camera, it’s not hard to expect another solid performance from the two-time Academy Award winner.
Between its subject matter and cinematographer-turned-director Aaron Schneider at the helm, “Greyhound” may end up being more action-packed than most people anticipate (kind of like a historical “Hunt for Red October”), which should raise its profile somewhat – though, despite Krause appearing in a number of Forester’s novels, don’t exactly expect this to turn into a major franchise. Starring alongside Hanks are Elizabeth Shue, playing Krause’s wife Eva, and Stephen Graham, Manuel Garcia-Rulfo, and Rob Morgan filling out the titular ship’s crew.
“Greyhound” sails into theaters on June 12. You can watch the trailer below.