J. A. Bayona's 2012 film "The Impossible," a biographical disaster drama that provided Tom Holland with his first live-action acting role, is set to leave free streaming platforms Tubi and Pluto TV soon. The film, based on the true story of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, stars Holland as Lucas, a young boy separated from his family during the catastrophic event.
"The Impossible" recounts the harrowing experience of María Belón, a Spanish physician who, along with her husband and two sons, survived the tsunami while on vacation in Thailand. Belón collaborated with director Bayona to ensure the film's accuracy. The cast also features Naomi Watts as María (credited as Dr. Maria Bennett), Ewan McGregor as Henry, and Samuel Joslin and Oaklee Pendergast as Thomas and Simon.
Despite being only 14 years old during production, Tom Holland delivered a compelling performance as Lucas, a boy forced to mature rapidly as he cares for his severely injured mother. His portrayal is noted for conveying a gravitas that stands alongside the performances of Watts and McGregor. The film's emotional impact is established early in its 113-minute runtime, depicting the devastating tsunami that strikes the resort shortly after the family's arrival, splitting them and leaving Lucas to look after his gravely wounded mother.
Upon its release, "The Impossible" was a significant success, grossing $11 million on its opening weekend and remaining one of the highest-grossing Spanish films. The movie is praised for its nuanced exploration of the human condition and the testing of familial bonds in the face of disaster, avoiding exploitative or purely shock-driven filmmaking.
"The Impossible" has been available on Tubi and Pluto TV, but viewers looking to stream the film should do so before its departure from these platforms.