Yeah, I'm in the same boat -- I have no direct personal experience with anything like this (a good thing, I guess!), but to me it seemed like a very thoughtful and respectful portrayal that never felt voyeuristic, maudlin or too sentimental. It's not surprising to find out that the director was inspired by RL survivors' stories; it felt as if she tried hard to be respectful while still telling a compelling story.

I also really loved how the movie steered clear of so many of the cliches and tropes surrounding rape and physical or emotional disability. Of course none of that would have mattered if the actors and the writing hadn't brought the characters to life so well.

*trots off to read your review :D*

I pretty much agree with everything you said! (Except one thing: I think the captain was Russian?) Like you, I had no idea it would be so affecting when I started watching it; it built slowly and then it comes out of nowhere and swings and hits, before you know what happened. But in a good way!