The Rocketeer

The Rocketeer is an engaging feature from the 90's which I don't really consider a sci-fi film at all though we have some aspects of the genre. The film is not a spoof but it comes mighty close to one as Rocketeer incorporates so many themes and techniques from from cinema serials from the 1930's and 1940's not to mention a slew of stars who, while not being superheroes per se, bear a huge resemblance to Billy Campbell's character. Think of Joel McCrea in Hitchcock's "Foreign Correspondent", Walter Pidgeon in Fritz Lang's "Man Hunt", Francis Lederer in "The Man I Married" co-starring Joan Bennett not to mention Errol Flynn and his several daring "aeronautic films" with one very specific Nazi film at Warner Brothers during the war years.

The film is set just prior to the outbreak of WWII and the entire project and ambiance of the film are masterful recreations of the late 1930's. With the discovery of some black pack of serious note, it is all confirmed by mechanic of sorts Alan Arkin who plays Peevy.

The problem soon arises that what CLIFF (Billy Campbell) and LATER -JENNY (Jennifer Connelly) have is desperately wanted by others such as the FBI, the Nazis themselves and more. It all makes one realize what a genius Howard Hughes was during those years with aviation devices and techniques. With all the surprises and twists and a romance enmeshed in an apparent super hero story with a capable woman driving her own fate, matters become fun and adventurous a film most anyone would enjoy.

There are so many superhero movies today people say they've taken over theaters (even though they represent only a small percentage of all titles released). I remember when you needed to read a book to see your favorite super-powered adventurer! All the big names have gotten numerous appearances on the silver screen so how about something a little different? If “The Rocketeer” isn't on your radar, it should be. It's got what it takes to charm just about anyone.

Set in the U. S. in 1938, stunt pilot Cliff Secord (Billy Campbell) discovers a mysterious rocket pack that everyone from the FBI to Nazi operatives want at any cost. Unaware of the device’s importance, Cliff - along with his mechanic Peevy (Alan Arkin) - perfects the rocket’s controls and uses it to become a masked hero.

Director Joe Johnston perfectly captures the look and feel of the era. The film looks, feels. And sounds like was made during the 1930s, which to me gives it a timeless quality. It's bright-eyed and optimistic, unaware of the danger that looms ahead but sure to be ready to face it head-on when it arrives. When Cliff sees this jet pack, he does what the audience members want him to do: wear, get himself a cool helmet and become a superhero. There’s never an instant of considering an ordinary life. Regular guys don’t get the girl in the end, don’t save the day and don’t become legends. Immediately, the picture raises your spirits and gets you excited to see what's next. It’s full of good special effects and “just one chance” jumps mixed in with some light-hearted, good-natured comedic moments.

Although you don't need to know much about "the golden days of Hollywood" to appreciate "The Rocketeer", being aware of it enhances your experience. Cliff’s romantic rival is clearly a pastiche of Errol Flynn (he even plays a swashbuckling bandit in a movie being filmed during the events of this film) and recognizing what Howard Hughes did in real life makes Terry O’Quinn's portrayal of the man even more fun. It's got surprising twists in the second half, the hero's costume looks great, little details add that something extra to give the film solid re-watch value (like the news footage before the movie Cliff and his girlfriend Jenny go see). It all builds towards a terrific climax.

Look forward to seeing Jennifer Connelly as Jenny Blake. She’s Cliff’s girlfriend and she'll make your jaw drop. She’s beautiful in that classic style, like a pin-up model or vixen painted on the side of an airplane ready to fly into battle. I was afraid that she'd end up as little more than a damsel in distress for the villains to take hostage, but she’s integral to the plot and proves herself quite capable when the going gets tough.

It's surprising how well this film's held up since its release. It's just the right amount of action and comedy. An easy and instant favorite for everyone who watches. This is what you want in a family movie. Not just something inoffensive or with a nice message; a film that appeals to everyone and that you can all happily watch together. (Theatrical version on the big screen, February 2, 2015)

The Rocketeer is a takeoff of the old movie serials that were shown at movies before the main feature would start in the 30's right through to the 50's. The story takes place during the Second World War. Nazi's are trying to steal new technology that Howard Hughes has created. There are references to real life swashbuckler Errol Flynn who was said to be a Nazi sympathizer long after he had died. It was never really established if he really had been, just rumoured. The Rocketeer is a great adventure and a nostalgic look at days past. A good story, worth seeing.