An American war drama; A story about an American pilot who leads a squadron of volunteer aviators in the American Volunteer Group to help China's air force fight the Japanese during the Second World War. Wiithin his fold he wrangles with an arrogant hotshot pilot. This gung-ho adventure is a fairly accurate depiction of the cause with themes about heroics, cowardice and redemption. The airplane manouevres are well-staged but it is a small production which features newsreel footage for several cuts. Although it has an unabashedly propaganda feel, it zips along at a good pace. It also has Academy Award nominations for its sound design and special effects. John Wayne as a no-nonsense leader of brave men is engaging. It keeps an even tone throughout mainly due to being chock full of action which takes the edge off its threadbare script.
Review of Flying Tigers
