this film have the kernel of a really good story . the work of the men and woman of the coast guard and especially in the north pacific and be the stuff of hero and legend . this film muck up a good story with three ending ( none satisfying ) and a couple of unneeded and pointless bar fight and two allege romantic relationship that have as much spark a dead campfire . the rescue scene be great even if the computer generation be hokey and the scenario be pretty unreal but the backstory be lame and disappointing . costner be good especially his hand act ( watch for it ) . ashton kutcher be flat but not terrible . the main female character be one dimensional . the best female be one of the coast guard sailor in the rescue center and she on camera for about two minute in the whole film . it could have be an excellent film and costner need one .