Here’s your first solid movie of 2012 folks. Red Tails is a balanced 125 minute piece encompassing action and adequate character development. For a film releasing in the historical lackluster month of January, that’s pretty darn impressive.
The story chronicles the daily happenings of a group of African-American pilots stationed in Italy during the final stages of World War II. All the charismatic pilots are displeased with their lack of involvement during the war, as they are given “mop up” missions. They feel their respective talents are being wasted and yearn to get in on the action. Yet racial lines are still a sensitive subject in the military; and the eager crew is pinning their hopes on Colonel A.J. Bullard (Terrence Howard), who is back stateside fighting with the higher military brass, to allow his boys to fly some important missions against the more advanced Nazi air force.
While we get a flavoring of each respective member of the colorful (personality-wise) group, the story does eventually center on the relationship between flight leader ‘Easy’ Julian (Nate Parker) and his longtime best friend Joe ‘Lightning’ Little (David Oyelowo). Lightning is considered the best pilot amongst the entire regimen, yet his propensity to disobey Easy’s orders during routine missions can become a problem. Plus the two are both dealing with the rigors of warfare with their own respective vices. Also showing up is Cuba Gooding Jr. in a strong cameo role as the Major of this all African-American airbase. He fills the void as mentor and his on-screen speeches keep the story moving forward.
When the script unleashes its aerial action, it is nothing short of spectacular. Having Lucasfilm handling production on this is what enables director Anthony Hemingway to run a full, and respectful, throttle during these sequences. Everything is realistic for the time period and it actually becomes a wonder to behold with regards to the crisp filmmaking. The infinite number of perspectives the audience will see during these air-battles will have keep their eyes locked onto the screen. And for the George Lucas geeks out there, these scenes are essentially a giant extended version of the Battle of Hoth.
The storytelling that goes on in-between the action sequences is not the most engrossing tale ever spun. Some may say it’s too safe and obvious. And too vague. Perhaps that is true, but it still has an entertaining flare to it. Credit that to the set designs and light tone that fills up the atmosphere. Sure the dialogue moments are delivered, pardon the pun, in a fly-by-night fashion; but once again, they won’t deter you from enjoying what is being discussed in this story inspired by true events. Bottom line, this is worth seeing just for the aerial footage alone.
Overall, Red Tails finds the right levels and simply cruises right along. Sure there are a few mechanical quirks here and there, but you can still have an enjoyable flight even if you run into some turbulent moments.
Now count how many aerial metaphors yours truly used in this review.
Red Tails is rated PG-13 and opens in the Tampa Bay market on Friday.
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