In recent years, quite a few films have been made dedicated to both civil and military aviation. This subject continues to fascinate screenwriters and directors. And it’s no surprise: the combination of heroism, bravery, and often tragedy always stirs emotions and leaves no one indifferent. Some timeless films produced at the end of the last century have become genre classics, rivaling modern films rich in special effects. Such movies require an immense amount of work: the nuances and intricacies of the aviation field can’t simply be imagined. The cast is carefully chosen, and extensive research is conducted. Few achieve high results. But the best are appreciated not only by cinema and art experts but also by us—ordinary viewers.
So, here are the best feature films about aviation!
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Flight
A gripping film from 2012 about an extreme situation faced by a pilot, William Whip Whitaker. After consuming a considerable amount of alcohol and taking drugs, the pilot embarks on a flight. Due to some technical malfunctions, the aircraft becomes uncontrollable. The protagonist finds himself in a critical situation. In his hands are dozens of lives, including his own. William Whitaker manages to handle the challenge and performs an emergency landing.
But the story doesn’t end on this happy note. Upon discovering banned substances in the pilot’s blood, he faces the threat of a life sentence, rather than accolades and honor.
Producers explain that the airplane in the film is a composite of several existing commercial airliners so that no specific aircraft or airline could be identified within the movie.
The Aviator
One of the best films in contemporary cinema dedicated to aviation.
Director Martin Scorsese masterfully captured the atmosphere of that era.
The film tells the story of Howard Hughes—a wealthy industrialist. Hughes dedicates his life to technical research and development.
At the same time, the inventor works on an expensive movie about First World War fighter planes. Despite the funding difficulties, the film’s release turns out to be more than successful.
Hughes continues his endeavors in aircraft construction. With the onset of World War II, Howard receives an important order from the US Department of Defense for designing a reconnaissance aircraft.
However, the results of his painstaking work never saw practical application. Leonardo DiCaprio plays the leading role. He skillfully portrays Howard Hughes, capturing his personality, emotions, and even the struggles with his severe illness.
Martin Scorsese had Cate Blanchett watch all 15 of Katharine Hepburn’s films to accurately convey the character and mannerisms of the actress.
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United 93
A film dedicated to the tragic events of September 11, 2001, in the United States. The story focuses on the fourth plane hijacked by terrorists. United Airlines Flight 93 departs from New Jersey but never makes it to San Francisco. During the hijacking, each passenger reacts differently to the unfolding events: some paralyze in fear, while others fall into hysteria. The film immerses the viewer into that ill-fated moment. Through the actors’ performance, the terror, inevitability of the tragic end, and emotions aboard the plane are profoundly conveyed.
Pearl Harbor Attack
Coming soon…
A film that unveils the tragic chapters of World War II history. Pearl Harbor was an operation aimed at eliminating the control of the U.S. Air Force and Navy in the Pacific region. Japan struck at the nation’s aviation transport, its best ships, and submarines. Several thousand civilians were killed during the Japanese operation, and immeasurable damage was inflicted. This event led to the United States declaring the beginning of military actions. The movie vividly portrays the character of Admiral Yamamoto, commander of the Imperial Fleet, who was responsible for planning the Pearl Harbor operation. These actions were compelled by circumstances, as the Admiral himself was initially against engaging in war with the U.S.
Con Air
A gripping film whose action takes place aboard Con Air, a specialized U.S. Marshals transport service tasked with transferring prisoners from one prison to another. Among the inmates is Cameron Poe, convicted of manslaughter during a fight while defending his wife’s honor. The main character has been paroled and is eager to reunite with his wife and young daughter. However, due to the unfolding circumstances, Cameron becomes involved in another crime: he finds himself in the middle of a plane hijacking orchestrated by the hardened criminal Cyrus Grissom. The role of the protagonist is masterfully played by the inimitable Nicolas Cage. He manages to embody the traits of a fearless fighter and a loving family man.
All of these films have received high praise from the film community, as evidenced by numerous Oscar nominations. Thrilling and imagination-stirring, they are must-haves for your movie collection. Enjoy watching!