8. Prepare For Re-Entry - Apollo 13
Starring in Ron Howard's Apollo 13 based on true events, Tom Hanks gives an excellent performance as astronaut Jim Lovell. Released in 1995, Apollo 13 achieved critical acclaim and was a smash-hit at the worldwide box office, bringing in upwards of £220 million in ticket sales. And it's no surprise the failed lunar mission bags a place in the top 10 for one of the actor's greatest movie moments. Playing the Captain or the leader of a group is no strange role for Hanks, who manages to keep his cool under the most extreme situations. But when faced with danger at every corner, the three astronauts must work together with NASA in order to survive the journey back to Earth. Hanks' performance throughout as Lovell is consistent and down-to-earth, despite his situation. And there are many moments that strike us with such intensity that we find ourselves gasping for air, or simple ones such as Lovell holding his thumb up to the Earth, measuring the distance, giving us a moment to ponder how small our own lives seem to be. Yet it's the time when the astronauts are preparing for re-entry when our heart rates pump into overdrive. In the crucial moment, Hanks as Lovell is sat with Haise and Swigert preparing to go home. It could mean entry into life or a swift exit into death. But Hanks, ever the optimist, chooses to deliver the line, "gentlemen it's been a privilege flying with you." The heavy weight of uncertainty hangs in the air as Hanks' expression tries to remain calm, swallowing frequently, accepting his fate. And after an excruciating silence, we hear his voice back on the radio, composed and consistent it's never felt so good to hear that voice again.