...the movie, it is NOT about flying............ The fact that he is a pilot, is only the 'vehicle' used to tell his story.
Not so. Would you see the film if the 'vehicle' was a bank manager or a garbo? No, you want the juice so Hollywood uses a contentious type like a heart surgeon or........ a pilot.
The R/T was arguably quite realistic.
Arguable because although there was plenty of correct phraseology, American pilots rarely use it. Where was all the "...okaaaaay, unnerstand down ta two five ohh, and switchin ta twenny three an a quarter..." Etc.
He should've blamed the dead hostie. She wouldn't mind, he could've stayed out of jail AND still beat his demons.