Band of Brothers is the gold standard. Pacific was good, but something was lacking. Masters is ok, but still lacking. It suddenly hit me. Band of Brothers had THE actual soldiers that were in the stories. Their true-life experiences and emotions made it the series that it was. Pacific and Masters didn't have that opportunity. Our Greatest Generation is all but gone. I believe that is the missing ingredient. So, take into consideration that the actors in Masters have ZERO ideas how to be the men they portray. More than a few negative reviews mention how it seems that these actors are just copying those from the movies of the time. They have to since there are so few of that time to guide them.
20 Reviews
in the shadow of Band of Brothers
nerrdrage3 February 2024
We all know that this series, like The Pacific, exists in the shadow of the amazing Band of Brothers. So I'm trying to set that aside and judge it on its own merits.
For starters, let's all be thankful for a historical drama of any sort, because they seem very thin on the ground in today's streaming world. And the attention to detail is appreciated, right down to regional accents that aren't heard much nowadays and only preserved in old movies.
They waste no time jumping into the action, and wow is it intense. Compared with the other arms of the military depicted in these series, the Air Force may be the most glamorous but also the least appealing if you were selecting which one to join. If each episode is as nerve-wracking as this one, I wonder if I can even get through the whole series.
It doesn't have the artistry of BofB but it sure has the you-are-there authenticity.
For starters, let's all be thankful for a historical drama of any sort, because they seem very thin on the ground in today's streaming world. And the attention to detail is appreciated, right down to regional accents that aren't heard much nowadays and only preserved in old movies.
They waste no time jumping into the action, and wow is it intense. Compared with the other arms of the military depicted in these series, the Air Force may be the most glamorous but also the least appealing if you were selecting which one to join. If each episode is as nerve-wracking as this one, I wonder if I can even get through the whole series.
It doesn't have the artistry of BofB but it sure has the you-are-there authenticity.
Finally!
vandykeu26 January 2024
I've been waiting on this series for a very long time, and my review is likely to be highly biased- you've been warned.
The episode starts off introducing Buck Cleven and Bucky Egan. These two are going to be super-important for the show, as two of the future squadron leaders within the 100th Bomb Group. How do I know this? Harry Crosby (who is the narrator here) wrote a FANTASTIC book about his experience as the group navigator for the 100th, published back in 1990. I've owned this book since then, and it is one of the great memoirs of the USA military in WW2. Read. It.
Back to the episode: we are briefly introduced to many of the key officers (and a few NCOs) of the 100th, as the episode progresses. We also get to see some early glimpses of the horrors they will soon be flying into. We also get to see how Egan is a bit of a loose cannon (holding very well to reality as told by Crosby).
Coming at this from a historical perspective, they've done a tremendous job here. The names, places, dates, details, etc. Are all top-notch. You can find many of these details on the 100th Bomb Group website. There might be a few liberties taken on specific events here and there, but they are illustrating the reality of what it was like to be in these men's shoes.
What does it do very well? For one thing, all of these guys look young. Harold Huglin, the group commander, was the old man of the bunch at 36. Even Cleven and Egan are in their early 20s. Everyone looks young, and they should be- they were new adults thrust into hell. The actors all do a great job as far as I can tell.
What does it do poorly? Well... the narrative is a bit hard to follow at times. There is so much happening here, and a lot of that is happening behind oxygen masks, and it will be easy for people to lose track of who is who and what is what. You're really going to have to pay attention.
Nowhere is this more true than in the combat scenes, which are excellent otherwise. It is pretty hard to tell crew from crew outside of knowing specific crew positions. A lot of these actors just look alike as 'generic white guys' (no offense intended). This is where key guys like Butler, Turner, and Keoghan are useful because they do have very unique eyes and voices, and are adept at acting with them. Everyone else... well, it's just hard to tell who is who, and this is a bit of a problem when they start bleeding and dying. I will say that I find Butler's accent and hair to be a bit overdone for the time... but it does set him apart from the others.
Overall, I am very excited for this one. In the vein of BoB and The Pacific, I think they're going to get it right. Can't wait for the next episodes to run!
The episode starts off introducing Buck Cleven and Bucky Egan. These two are going to be super-important for the show, as two of the future squadron leaders within the 100th Bomb Group. How do I know this? Harry Crosby (who is the narrator here) wrote a FANTASTIC book about his experience as the group navigator for the 100th, published back in 1990. I've owned this book since then, and it is one of the great memoirs of the USA military in WW2. Read. It.
Back to the episode: we are briefly introduced to many of the key officers (and a few NCOs) of the 100th, as the episode progresses. We also get to see some early glimpses of the horrors they will soon be flying into. We also get to see how Egan is a bit of a loose cannon (holding very well to reality as told by Crosby).
Coming at this from a historical perspective, they've done a tremendous job here. The names, places, dates, details, etc. Are all top-notch. You can find many of these details on the 100th Bomb Group website. There might be a few liberties taken on specific events here and there, but they are illustrating the reality of what it was like to be in these men's shoes.
What does it do very well? For one thing, all of these guys look young. Harold Huglin, the group commander, was the old man of the bunch at 36. Even Cleven and Egan are in their early 20s. Everyone looks young, and they should be- they were new adults thrust into hell. The actors all do a great job as far as I can tell.
What does it do poorly? Well... the narrative is a bit hard to follow at times. There is so much happening here, and a lot of that is happening behind oxygen masks, and it will be easy for people to lose track of who is who and what is what. You're really going to have to pay attention.
Nowhere is this more true than in the combat scenes, which are excellent otherwise. It is pretty hard to tell crew from crew outside of knowing specific crew positions. A lot of these actors just look alike as 'generic white guys' (no offense intended). This is where key guys like Butler, Turner, and Keoghan are useful because they do have very unique eyes and voices, and are adept at acting with them. Everyone else... well, it's just hard to tell who is who, and this is a bit of a problem when they start bleeding and dying. I will say that I find Butler's accent and hair to be a bit overdone for the time... but it does set him apart from the others.
Overall, I am very excited for this one. In the vein of BoB and The Pacific, I think they're going to get it right. Can't wait for the next episodes to run!
More than solid start
matiasbockerman-0304426 January 2024
Very good first episode. Directing, writing, acting are as good as you can expect to quality TV shows. Not to mention CGI, effects and breathtaking visuals.
Masters of the Air offers perspectives on war that has not been seen in any other series or movie. I read that the budget was about quarter of a billion and it shows. Hopefully the quality will remain the same in rest of the episodes. I have watched Band of Brothers and Pacific many times and have read(studied) a lot of warhistory, so i really look forward to this. Hopefully here is the future timeless classic for future generations too.
This was thrilling edge of seat stuff: characters are great, but there are so many of them that i don't root no one particular per say, but i expect to get to know them in following episodes.
Hopefully they use some old footage on war veterans: those interviews create an elements such as depth and realism: I was hoping to see those vets at some point.
Masters of the Air offers perspectives on war that has not been seen in any other series or movie. I read that the budget was about quarter of a billion and it shows. Hopefully the quality will remain the same in rest of the episodes. I have watched Band of Brothers and Pacific many times and have read(studied) a lot of warhistory, so i really look forward to this. Hopefully here is the future timeless classic for future generations too.
This was thrilling edge of seat stuff: characters are great, but there are so many of them that i don't root no one particular per say, but i expect to get to know them in following episodes.
Hopefully they use some old footage on war veterans: those interviews create an elements such as depth and realism: I was hoping to see those vets at some point.
What a pilot episode! We're off!!!
squiretet8326 January 2024
It's finally here and it truly doesn't disappoint.
The attention to detail from book to screen from the production is a masterpiece.
The cast all portray their real life characters on point that you know you're gonna love them just like characters from BofB and the pacific.
It's dramatic , harrowing, insightful, and funny in parts which will make you care about these characters so much.
The ariel scenes are well executed , the build up to the bombing runs is relentless also portraying the many horrors and ordeals the book details.
If that's true I'll be holding my breath for what's coming!!!
This is true cinematic tv at its finest , what a way to start!
The attention to detail from book to screen from the production is a masterpiece.
The cast all portray their real life characters on point that you know you're gonna love them just like characters from BofB and the pacific.
It's dramatic , harrowing, insightful, and funny in parts which will make you care about these characters so much.
The ariel scenes are well executed , the build up to the bombing runs is relentless also portraying the many horrors and ordeals the book details.
If that's true I'll be holding my breath for what's coming!!!
This is true cinematic tv at its finest , what a way to start!
Good start
grantss28 April 2024
1943. Best friends, US Army Air Corps bomber pilots Majors Gale "Buck" Cleven and John "Bucky" Egan have been posted to the 100th Bomb Group in England, flying B-17 bombers. Cleven will be a squadron commander, Egan the group's air exec. The 100th Bomb Group will be part of the allied air offensive against Germany and nothing can prepare Cleven and Egan for what lies ahead.
A good start to the series. I was initially a bit underwhelmed: the set-up in the US seemed unengaging and token and the two main characters seemed too young for their rank. However, as things progress things get much more gritty and engaging and the pilots of the USAAC were probably really that young.
Some good battle and flying scenes. It's not just about the action - the attention to detail is very good too, e.g. Showing pre-flight checklists, missions gets scrubbed. It's not about gung ho heroism.
CGI is good though maybe not 100% realistic. Feels like a PC game at times.
Overall though, an interesting start. I'll certainly be watching Episode 2.
A good start to the series. I was initially a bit underwhelmed: the set-up in the US seemed unengaging and token and the two main characters seemed too young for their rank. However, as things progress things get much more gritty and engaging and the pilots of the USAAC were probably really that young.
Some good battle and flying scenes. It's not just about the action - the attention to detail is very good too, e.g. Showing pre-flight checklists, missions gets scrubbed. It's not about gung ho heroism.
CGI is good though maybe not 100% realistic. Feels like a PC game at times.
Overall though, an interesting start. I'll certainly be watching Episode 2.
Amazing
andreas-mykra26 January 2024
One of the best opening episodes of a series ever.
This is so far on par with Band of Brothers in terms of Quality, Acting and Score. The fighting scenes are breathtaking.
Butler as one of the main characters is doing a very fine job so far and since I don't know the story I can't wait to see how "Buck" develops during the series.
The only thing I could complain about is the obvious CGI that is being used. What Band of Brothers did with the "gritty image" and Grainy image will probably never come back in a serie. That doesn't mean it is bad of course, because the budget is just on top here.
This is so far on par with Band of Brothers in terms of Quality, Acting and Score. The fighting scenes are breathtaking.
Butler as one of the main characters is doing a very fine job so far and since I don't know the story I can't wait to see how "Buck" develops during the series.
The only thing I could complain about is the obvious CGI that is being used. What Band of Brothers did with the "gritty image" and Grainy image will probably never come back in a serie. That doesn't mean it is bad of course, because the budget is just on top here.
Episode 101, a rough start
nscoby935 February 2024
As a huge fan of the phenomenal TV miniseries Band of Brothers I was really excited to hear that Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg were teaming up once more to produce Masters of the Air unfortunately this first episode leaves a bit to be desired.
This first episode struggles with cliche dialogue and characters that don't capture my attention or care. The actors' performances are solid enough, but none of them feel natural in their parts. I love Austin Butler his performance in Elvis was phenomenal, but I swear I feel he's just being Elvis again here. His accent is practically the same, and he hasn't convinced me that he's in a different part.
The story is fine enough, but when it comes to these types of dramas, I'm looking more for the history to be put on display. Unfortunately, I never felt the gravity of the historical time period. Sure, everything looks like it's 1943, but I don't feel it, and a lot of that I think is due to the way this show looks. In Band of Brothers, I immediately felt like I was in this time period with these characters, and these characters are just not as well established as they could've been.
Speaking of how this show looks... too much cgi. Now the cgi here is solid, and I've definitely seen worse, but I feel there are moments with cgi that don't call for it. A major reason why Band of Brothers was so great was the show looked and felt real thanks to amazing practical effects. The better technology in filmmaking gets it seems the worse things look because everyone just wants to rely on cgi.
Irregardless, this is just the first episode, so I'll continue watching in the hopes things will get better. I mean, it can't be as bad as The Pacific.
IMDb: 6/10 Letterboxd: 3/5
Watched on Apple TV+ in 4k Dolby Vision.
This first episode struggles with cliche dialogue and characters that don't capture my attention or care. The actors' performances are solid enough, but none of them feel natural in their parts. I love Austin Butler his performance in Elvis was phenomenal, but I swear I feel he's just being Elvis again here. His accent is practically the same, and he hasn't convinced me that he's in a different part.
The story is fine enough, but when it comes to these types of dramas, I'm looking more for the history to be put on display. Unfortunately, I never felt the gravity of the historical time period. Sure, everything looks like it's 1943, but I don't feel it, and a lot of that I think is due to the way this show looks. In Band of Brothers, I immediately felt like I was in this time period with these characters, and these characters are just not as well established as they could've been.
Speaking of how this show looks... too much cgi. Now the cgi here is solid, and I've definitely seen worse, but I feel there are moments with cgi that don't call for it. A major reason why Band of Brothers was so great was the show looked and felt real thanks to amazing practical effects. The better technology in filmmaking gets it seems the worse things look because everyone just wants to rely on cgi.
Irregardless, this is just the first episode, so I'll continue watching in the hopes things will get better. I mean, it can't be as bad as The Pacific.
IMDb: 6/10 Letterboxd: 3/5
Watched on Apple TV+ in 4k Dolby Vision.
Episode 1 - Soaring High or Grounded?
SonGoku5401 February 2024
Taking flight with the highly anticipated "Masters of the Air," the first episode delivers a visually stunning and action-packed introduction to the world of the Eighth Air Force in World War II. But does it stick the landing, or does it sputter out on the runway? Let's dive in.
The aerial cinematography is breathtaking, capturing the vastness of the sky and the intensity of aerial combat with stunning realism. The CGI seamlessly blends with practical effects, creating a believable and immersive experience. The dogfights are intense and exhilarating, putting you right in the cockpit with the pilots as they face enemy fire and desperate maneuvers. The stakes feel real, and the tension builds effectively. While not fully fleshed out yet, the main characters are introduced with enough personality and conflict to pique interest. We see their camaraderie, fear, and bravado, setting the stage for further development. The series seems committed to historical accuracy, depicting the training, camaraderie, and dangers faced by the Eighth Air Force with a degree of realism.
The first episode, while visually impressive, can feel slow at times. The character introductions and training sequences take up a significant portion of the runtime, leaving less room for high-octane action. Though promising, the characters haven't had enough screen time to be fully fleshed out. Their motivations and backstories remain largely unexplored, making it difficult to fully connect with them. The narrative follows a familiar structure, with the brash rookie pilot finding his place among the veterans. While not necessarily a bad thing, it lacks the originality that some might expect.
Austin Butler as Major Gale Cleven, Butler delivers a solid performance, portraying the character's leadership and vulnerability with nuance. Callum Turner brings charm and humor to the role of the charismatic pilot, John Egan. The ensemble cast is solid, with each actor contributing to the overall atmosphere and camaraderie of the crew.
Cinematography is exceptional, as mentioned earlier. The aerial sequences are particularly impressive. Sound Design is immersive and impactful, bringing the sounds of the planes and the chaos of battle to life. Score is uplifting and suspenseful, adding to the emotional weight of the scenes.
"Masters of the Air" takes off with a visually stunning and action-packed first episode. While the pacing might be slow at times, and the characters need further development, the potential for a compelling and historically accurate drama is undeniable. If you're looking for a visually stunning and action-packed World War II drama, then buckle up and give "Masters of the Air" a chance. However, if you crave deeper character exploration and a more innovative narrative, you might find yourself waiting for the series to hit its full altitude.
The aerial cinematography is breathtaking, capturing the vastness of the sky and the intensity of aerial combat with stunning realism. The CGI seamlessly blends with practical effects, creating a believable and immersive experience. The dogfights are intense and exhilarating, putting you right in the cockpit with the pilots as they face enemy fire and desperate maneuvers. The stakes feel real, and the tension builds effectively. While not fully fleshed out yet, the main characters are introduced with enough personality and conflict to pique interest. We see their camaraderie, fear, and bravado, setting the stage for further development. The series seems committed to historical accuracy, depicting the training, camaraderie, and dangers faced by the Eighth Air Force with a degree of realism.
The first episode, while visually impressive, can feel slow at times. The character introductions and training sequences take up a significant portion of the runtime, leaving less room for high-octane action. Though promising, the characters haven't had enough screen time to be fully fleshed out. Their motivations and backstories remain largely unexplored, making it difficult to fully connect with them. The narrative follows a familiar structure, with the brash rookie pilot finding his place among the veterans. While not necessarily a bad thing, it lacks the originality that some might expect.
Austin Butler as Major Gale Cleven, Butler delivers a solid performance, portraying the character's leadership and vulnerability with nuance. Callum Turner brings charm and humor to the role of the charismatic pilot, John Egan. The ensemble cast is solid, with each actor contributing to the overall atmosphere and camaraderie of the crew.
Cinematography is exceptional, as mentioned earlier. The aerial sequences are particularly impressive. Sound Design is immersive and impactful, bringing the sounds of the planes and the chaos of battle to life. Score is uplifting and suspenseful, adding to the emotional weight of the scenes.
"Masters of the Air" takes off with a visually stunning and action-packed first episode. While the pacing might be slow at times, and the characters need further development, the potential for a compelling and historically accurate drama is undeniable. If you're looking for a visually stunning and action-packed World War II drama, then buckle up and give "Masters of the Air" a chance. However, if you crave deeper character exploration and a more innovative narrative, you might find yourself waiting for the series to hit its full altitude.
A rough takeoff
mesaxi28 January 2024
The first episode begins by battering you with cliches until you want to turn it off, and then is saved by some spectacular battle scenes, and then goes back to the nonsense. Every moment outside of a plane is very dry and feels contrived, none of the actors feel natural. I believe one actor has a thick Australian accent that they tried to cover with a New England accent and I was laughing because it turns out they are pretty close. I'm not particularly a fan of Berry Keoghan or Elvis, and selling the idea that they're some sort of rough and tumble pilots isn't working. There was one part where Pendleton said "Thank You" and I swear to god he did the Elvis voice. I think part of the charm of the original Band of Brothers was you got a bit of the characters training, this just jumped in with both feet and starts with deployment.
Overall it's a shaky start, but I'll stick with it for a bit. The most worrying scene to me was the "gears up" landing, which they tried to blow into this edge of your seat scene with loud suspenseful music. First of all, less is more, but more importantly if that's where the kind of thing they try to make exciting it tells me there isn't going to be much action. I hope I'm wrong.
Overall it's a shaky start, but I'll stick with it for a bit. The most worrying scene to me was the "gears up" landing, which they tried to blow into this edge of your seat scene with loud suspenseful music. First of all, less is more, but more importantly if that's where the kind of thing they try to make exciting it tells me there isn't going to be much action. I hope I'm wrong.
"Part One"
allmoviesfan2 April 2024
Warning: Spoilers
A tremendous start.
Following a similar path to Band of Brothers, this epic miniseries traces the ups and downs of a squadron of Americans flying the B-17 Flying Fortress over Nazi-occupied Europe, adapted from the non-fiction work of the same name by Donald L. Miller.
Part One commences in 1943 with the green, untested Americans arriving on the Continent ahead of their first taste of combat. We get to know some of the main characters - including one known as Buck and one as Bucky, which must have been confusing - before they climb aboard their heavy, unmaneuverable planes, heading out on a mission to bomb a U-boat yard in Bremen.
The action sequences, cinematic in scale, are unflinching and spectacular.
Following a similar path to Band of Brothers, this epic miniseries traces the ups and downs of a squadron of Americans flying the B-17 Flying Fortress over Nazi-occupied Europe, adapted from the non-fiction work of the same name by Donald L. Miller.
Part One commences in 1943 with the green, untested Americans arriving on the Continent ahead of their first taste of combat. We get to know some of the main characters - including one known as Buck and one as Bucky, which must have been confusing - before they climb aboard their heavy, unmaneuverable planes, heading out on a mission to bomb a U-boat yard in Bremen.
The action sequences, cinematic in scale, are unflinching and spectacular.
Setting a Weaker Stage - Episode 1 - "Part One"
xNanoks5 May 2024
As always, this is a spoiler-free review.
When Masters of the Air was first introduced to the public, all thoughts went to Band of Brothers and The Pacific. Both, but particularly the first, were pioneers in shaping a new kind of landscape for what 'epic' mini series are supposed to be. With the exemplary vision of epic storytelling from Spielberg, and the craft of nuance and emotion from Hanks, the foresight of having yet another similarly styled mini series was promising. But, as far as expectations for an entire series from a first episode can go, Masters of the Air lacks the same flair and overall excitement of watching something epic.
Directed by Cary Joji Fukunaga, whose greater work we can first endearingly behold as prime director for True Detective Season 1, episode 1 sets the stage for what Masters of the Air will entail. But while True Detective's first season is one of the most critically acclaimed pieces of TV entertainment to date, the stage set for Masters of the Air is weaker than that of its brothers in arms. Cary's style of building up tension with clear setpieces throughout the episode works well when you can smear it across an entire season. To create the same flow in one episode results in convolution of the storyline. At the end of a first episode of a mini series you want to leave the viewer with a thought of "My world, this is going to be great". While I can say "My world, this is going to be good", I can't predict great.
All this is not to say that Masters of the Air is bad television. Not by any means, in fact. Episode 1 features as a sort of summary of what the entire series will entail. As said, it sets the stage. There's a little bit of all; brotherhood, conflict, action, loss and decision-making. There are enough silver linings to an otherwise mediocre first impression, to make you 'ok' with another episode. One silver lining is the music score, because oh my, is it good. From the main theme's song to the trumpet-blaring intersections, the score does not miss. Another lining that is indeed silver is that the series is aesthetically beautiful. From the indoor set pieces to the flashy but comprehendable action scenes, the budget on finetuning the aesthetics was not mild, to say the least.
Rated 7 out of 10 knots, episode 1 of Masters of the Air sets the stage of something that cán be good, not great.
When Masters of the Air was first introduced to the public, all thoughts went to Band of Brothers and The Pacific. Both, but particularly the first, were pioneers in shaping a new kind of landscape for what 'epic' mini series are supposed to be. With the exemplary vision of epic storytelling from Spielberg, and the craft of nuance and emotion from Hanks, the foresight of having yet another similarly styled mini series was promising. But, as far as expectations for an entire series from a first episode can go, Masters of the Air lacks the same flair and overall excitement of watching something epic.
Directed by Cary Joji Fukunaga, whose greater work we can first endearingly behold as prime director for True Detective Season 1, episode 1 sets the stage for what Masters of the Air will entail. But while True Detective's first season is one of the most critically acclaimed pieces of TV entertainment to date, the stage set for Masters of the Air is weaker than that of its brothers in arms. Cary's style of building up tension with clear setpieces throughout the episode works well when you can smear it across an entire season. To create the same flow in one episode results in convolution of the storyline. At the end of a first episode of a mini series you want to leave the viewer with a thought of "My world, this is going to be great". While I can say "My world, this is going to be good", I can't predict great.
All this is not to say that Masters of the Air is bad television. Not by any means, in fact. Episode 1 features as a sort of summary of what the entire series will entail. As said, it sets the stage. There's a little bit of all; brotherhood, conflict, action, loss and decision-making. There are enough silver linings to an otherwise mediocre first impression, to make you 'ok' with another episode. One silver lining is the music score, because oh my, is it good. From the main theme's song to the trumpet-blaring intersections, the score does not miss. Another lining that is indeed silver is that the series is aesthetically beautiful. From the indoor set pieces to the flashy but comprehendable action scenes, the budget on finetuning the aesthetics was not mild, to say the least.
Rated 7 out of 10 knots, episode 1 of Masters of the Air sets the stage of something that cán be good, not great.
Mediocre
josigreenaway27 January 2024
Well, this series is finally airing now. My wife and I huge military history lovers, and so we were both quite looking forward to this series. I will start with that it seems rather obvious that it's not the same writers as Band of Brothers. As another reviewer said: very little character development and a lot of cliches. The CGI is rather low budget as well, so most scenes come across as cinematics from Call of Duty or the like. And I'll also say that the acting isn't all that great either. Somehow HBO pulled off a WWII drama perfectly, right from the start, with Band of Brothers.
Hopefully it improves in following episodes, because so far it's very mediocre.
Hopefully it improves in following episodes, because so far it's very mediocre.
Apple TV changing the industry
xuicpqmd29 February 2024
With so many streaming services and shows available, it can be hard to choose which ones to watch and subscribe to. I have tried many of them, but I decided to stick with only two: HBO Max and Apple TV Plus. Here are my reasons why, especially for Apple TV Plus:
> - The shows are original and well-produced. They do not compromise on quality. For example, For All Mankind is a superb show that transports you back in time with its alternative history premise. It is not a knock-off of any other show, unlike some of the offerings from Netflix, which tend to recycle successful formulas. Apple TV Plus shows have to be original and creative.
> - For this show, Masters of the Air, everything is authentic and genuine, from the costumes to the airplanes to the quality of picture and sound. It is a realistic and immersive depiction of the aerial warfare in World War II.
> - Apple TV Plus respects the industry and does not destroy it. It pays its actors well and ensures a smooth production process. It also supports diversity and inclusion in its content and staff.
> - Apple reinvented the phone and now it reinvented the TV. If you follow Apple TV Plus, you will find everything you need in terms of quality, variety, and attention to detail. For example, check out the documentaries about animals. They have the best collection, such as Earth at Night in Color and Prehistoric Planet.
> - My final point is that if you cancel everything else and keep only Apple TV Plus and maybe HBO Max, you will not miss anything. These two streaming services have the best shows and movies in the market.
> - The shows are original and well-produced. They do not compromise on quality. For example, For All Mankind is a superb show that transports you back in time with its alternative history premise. It is not a knock-off of any other show, unlike some of the offerings from Netflix, which tend to recycle successful formulas. Apple TV Plus shows have to be original and creative.
> - For this show, Masters of the Air, everything is authentic and genuine, from the costumes to the airplanes to the quality of picture and sound. It is a realistic and immersive depiction of the aerial warfare in World War II.
> - Apple TV Plus respects the industry and does not destroy it. It pays its actors well and ensures a smooth production process. It also supports diversity and inclusion in its content and staff.
> - Apple reinvented the phone and now it reinvented the TV. If you follow Apple TV Plus, you will find everything you need in terms of quality, variety, and attention to detail. For example, check out the documentaries about animals. They have the best collection, such as Earth at Night in Color and Prehistoric Planet.
> - My final point is that if you cancel everything else and keep only Apple TV Plus and maybe HBO Max, you will not miss anything. These two streaming services have the best shows and movies in the market.
PART ONE
moviesfilmsreviewsinc27 April 2024
Masters of the Air is a story about two best friends, Major Gale "Buck" Cleven and Major John "Bucky" Eagan, who serve in the US Air Force. They are part of the 100th Bomb Squad, which is sent to England to aid the 8th US Air Force in its aerial battle with Nazi Germany. Eagan, who has been promoted to General Air Executive, is not flying bomber planes in missions. However, he has a desire to contribute and has been hired as an Observation Pilot. The 100th Bomb Squad is part of four squadrons, led by Major Cleven, each with six to eight members. The unit, a highly trained and experienced group, landed in South Greenland base, facing a challenging real war scenario. The unit, consisting of US citizens, was led by Major Harry Crossby, a navigator. They had to fly from Greenland to Thorpe Abbotts Air Field to begin their missions. However, their plane, which was diverted towards France, and cloud cover hindered visibility. Despite the difficult landing, they managed to escape the dangerous situation. One of the flaps didn't open, and they had to crash land, which attracted the attention of CO Harold Huglin. The unit's bravery and character were tested in real war. Eagan, a unit commander, is summoned and warned about maintaining order. He pleads to be demoted to a Squadron Commander, but Huglin rejects his request. Huglin vomits blood on his table after Eagan leaves. On 25 June 1944, the unit's first mission is to hit German U-boat pens in Bremen, which are bunkers protecting them from air attacks. The 350th and 349th squads, led by Cleven and Major Wheeler, are tasked with neutralizing these boats, as nearly 70 Allies cargo ships have been downed in the sea. The importance of remaining together in a tight formation is emphasized, as German fighters could pick them off one by one. The unit must also brave ground artillery to prevent them from hitting the pens. The weather conditions are unfavorable, with dense cloud coverage making it difficult for planes to have visibility. Two planes nearly bump into each other before the mission starts. Artillery fire is started, and a few planes are hit, but they manage. Huglin, flying with the 349th, scrubs the mission due to poor visibility, unable to accurately bomb the pens from the open air. The unit is disappointed when the German counter in the air hits, causing significant damage and taking down three from the Air Force unit. Out of 19 planes, only 16 return. The alarm is sounded, and a full interrogation is undertaken. The excitement and build-up end with no bombs being dropped on the Germans, suggesting that this may be the new normal for the 100th bomb squad. In Episode 1, Masters of the Air is a companion piece to Band of Brothers, focusing on the camaraderie of unit members rather than the actual mission. The makers of the show share cinema essentials, making it difficult to remember characters initially. The storytelling focuses on the members of the unit rather than the mission itself. The technical proficiency behind the scenes is impressive, with impressive jargon in writing and performances. Visual effects set the standards, with cockpit sequences and air combat scenes being masterfully brought to life. If you were expecting something similar to Band of Brothers, Masters of the Air promises to be another stellar piece of content.
Bad writing but good characters.
mdk-944-5447373 February 2024
My wife and i have watched Band of Brother multiple times and was suggested watching this series because of that. So with great expectations we fired this episode up and was immediately confused by the weird pacing and weird introduction to characters. After 15 minutes we almost wanted to turn it off - and halfway through i gave up and did something else that evening.
This first episode is a big pile of mess in terms of sorry telling, you are tossed directly into the story without proper introduction of characters, almost as if you wandered into a movie halfway.
The choice of actors are good, they all act really good and look like they belong in that era. Its just sad that they are wasted on this pile of mess.
The visuals are below the standards you expect in 2024 , with subpar CGI. Which is quite obvious most of the time.
I dont think we'll watch anymore episodes.
This first episode is a big pile of mess in terms of sorry telling, you are tossed directly into the story without proper introduction of characters, almost as if you wandered into a movie halfway.
The choice of actors are good, they all act really good and look like they belong in that era. Its just sad that they are wasted on this pile of mess.
The visuals are below the standards you expect in 2024 , with subpar CGI. Which is quite obvious most of the time.
I dont think we'll watch anymore episodes.
Cliches and CGI bombers
mgregory-927 January 2024
If you're after low quality CGI and a cliche a minute then this is the show for you. The lack of character development beyond the machismo boys will be boys scenes (and these were so low brow) sets this series off to a bad start. It appears that realism was thrown out the door, and the script writers opted for the safety of scenes similar to what weve seen in the bomber movies that we've seen before. The short for the second episode was not encouraging - we fly at night - your stupid to fly in daylight - etc. Why is the focus is on a false bravado that did not exist? Yes the Padres were introduced, but in a mocking way, they were a focus for many airmen.
What a dismal start
bobetjo29 January 2024
Wow. This episode is boring! I cannot work out how a series with this potential has it's first episode being so tedious. For a start the opening credits are over long. They just keep going. Then there are the characters. Not hugely charismatic. I just can't be bothered to care about any of them. This despite a voice over introducing each, immediately forgotten, spear carrier.
Then the 'action scene' in a shot up bomber. Just not that great either. What's wrong with this show? The CGI looked fine, if a little clean. Yet it did not carry it off. For realism, why was no one smoking? Those barracks and bars would have been fugs of blue smoke. So if we are giving up on realism, how can anything else be convincing.
It seems to be poorly lit as well. And, for a show set in the boundless sky, it feels claustrophobic.
For all the hype this first episode does not bode well.
Then the 'action scene' in a shot up bomber. Just not that great either. What's wrong with this show? The CGI looked fine, if a little clean. Yet it did not carry it off. For realism, why was no one smoking? Those barracks and bars would have been fugs of blue smoke. So if we are giving up on realism, how can anything else be convincing.
It seems to be poorly lit as well. And, for a show set in the boundless sky, it feels claustrophobic.
For all the hype this first episode does not bode well.
Sad
southgatekid10 February 2024
Warning: Spoilers
This is more of a caricature than a faithful fascimile. The CGI of the bombers is really poor. They have them doing maneuvers that are more like those done by fighter aircraft..the dialogue is not what one would expect. When you watched Band of Brothers and Pacific, you found yourself forgetting it was tv. The cast, quite a few we know from BBC programming are in predictable and cliched characters and dialogue. I had high hopes when I heard it was coming soon. I think thus will be an example of going to the well too many times. Growing up a friend of my dads flew B-17's. This series doesnt
do justice IMO.
Checklist driven with no heart
grlym-468495 February 2024
I once heard that the difference between a good film and a great film is the director. The one that can pull the vision throughout production despite whatever obstacle comes is what makes it great. This film lacked direction where it mattered
The checklist driven production had the following: 1. Adequate budget 2 great sets 3. Great costumes and props 4 decent actors 5. Two huge predecessors to cultivate interest in Thai show (the pacific and band of brothers)
But the show failed in heart. It was underwhelming. Hinted at good characters but falls short of focus to show us who to care for.
Instead he just ran a checklist 1 drunken pilot with locals. Falls for girl 2 a clever guy holding onto high demand, low density items (like bikes) 3 a narrator to create gravity moments 4. A commander who demands more 5 a food scene for comraderie with a comedy moment at one persons expense (salt scene) 6 big budget scene for action sequences.
7 tense battle scenes and personal decisions to overcome situation
Yet, despite copying the basics, each part felt bland. Like there was no unifying vision of what the director wanted to say. Sc new are just cobbled together , hoping we are all WW2 buffs. The actors just all blend together. Muttled mess
The only thing this show does is to inspire me to turn it off and rewatch the great WW2 shows that preceded This one.
These heroes deserved a better telling.
The checklist driven production had the following: 1. Adequate budget 2 great sets 3. Great costumes and props 4 decent actors 5. Two huge predecessors to cultivate interest in Thai show (the pacific and band of brothers)
But the show failed in heart. It was underwhelming. Hinted at good characters but falls short of focus to show us who to care for.
Instead he just ran a checklist 1 drunken pilot with locals. Falls for girl 2 a clever guy holding onto high demand, low density items (like bikes) 3 a narrator to create gravity moments 4. A commander who demands more 5 a food scene for comraderie with a comedy moment at one persons expense (salt scene) 6 big budget scene for action sequences.
7 tense battle scenes and personal decisions to overcome situation
Yet, despite copying the basics, each part felt bland. Like there was no unifying vision of what the director wanted to say. Sc new are just cobbled together , hoping we are all WW2 buffs. The actors just all blend together. Muttled mess
The only thing this show does is to inspire me to turn it off and rewatch the great WW2 shows that preceded This one.
These heroes deserved a better telling.
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