Watch Lafayette Escadrille

Lafayette Escadrille is a 1958 war drama film directed by William A. Wellman and starring Tab Hunter, Clint Eastwood, and Etchika Choureau. The film is set during World War I and follows the story of a group of young American volunteer pilots who join the French Air Force to fight against the Germans. The movie is based on the true story of the Lafayette Escadrille, a group of American pilots who fought for France before the United States entered the war. The film depicts the pilots' training in France and their dangerous missions in the skies over Europe.

Tab Hunter plays the role of Thad Walker, a wealthy American who joins the Escadrille with dreams of adventure and glory. Clint Eastwood, in one of his earliest film roles, plays the role of George Moseley, a tough-talking Texan who becomes the leader of the group. Etchika Choureau plays the part of Renee Beaulieu, a French woman who falls in love with Thad.

The film's action sequences are the highlight of the movie, with thrilling aerial dogfights that are some of the best ever filmed. The filmmakers used real planes from World War I and employed skilled stunt pilots to create an authentic and exciting experience for audiences.

The movie also explores the personal dramas of the pilots, including their relationships with each other and with the women in their lives. It portrays the camaraderie and close bonds that developed between the pilots as they faced danger and adversity together.

Overall, Lafayette Escadrille is a well-made and entertaining war drama that pays tribute to the brave American pilots who fought for France during World War I. The aerial footage is stunning, the performances are strong, and the story is compelling. It is a must-see for fans of classic war movies and aviation enthusiasts alike.

Lafayette Escadrille is a 2016 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 32 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.5.