Unbroken: More than Just a Story, Let's Talk About the Tech

Okay, so I finally got around to watching "Unbroken" and yeah, Zamperini's story is incredible. But you KNOW I'm always looking past the plot and geeking out about the technical stuff. I'm dkim_films, by the way, for anyone new. So, my theory isn't groundbreaking, but more of an observation about how they used (and sometimes didn't use) sound to amplify the POW experience. Specifically, think about the bombing raids and the plane crash scenes. They did a solid job creating that cacophony of metal screeching, explosions, and general war noise. But there were moments, especially in the POW camp, where the absence of sound felt really deliberate. Like when Zamperini is being brutally punished - the muffled screams, the wind whistling – it really isolates him. My theory? They were trying to put us in HIS head, make us feel the loneliness and helplessness. It wasn't always consistent, though, which is a shame. Also, I'm curious about the water effects, especially during the raft sequence. They looked pretty convincing, but I'm always suspicious of CGI water these days. Anyone know if they used practical effects mixed with digital enhancements? I'm leaning towards a LOT of digital, especially when the plane goes down. But I gotta give props to the sound designers again for those creaking noises during the raft scenes, really unsettling! I think the visuals themselves did a good job portraying despair of being in the ocean. Overall, "Unbroken" is a powerful film, and while the story is the main draw, the technical aspects – the sound design in particular – definitely added layers to the emotional impact. It's still a good story, but I notice the tech design choices in modern cinema. Definitely worth a watch, but don't go in expecting a total sound and visual effects masterclass. What did you guys think? Any other tech things you noticed?