I hardly ever enjoy Tom Hanks performances, but this one was very watchable, though his best moments are only at the very end, after his rescue. I also enjoyed watching the lead of the pirates, which is a rather unusual casting choice. He is also the most interesting character in the movie, a villain that provides comfort for his victim, and a villain we get to care for.
One other special thing about the movie is the subject matter, which I don't remember ever seeing explored before in movies: modern-day ship piracy. Another special thing is the attention to detail regarding the cargo ship, which is also a rare sight. The direction is of decent quality and so is the tension.
The movie could be shorter though, and the numerous attempts by the title character to prevail are tiring. The movie also moves too quick from Somalia to the seas... there is not enough exploration of the background of our villains.