Watch Wings
- PG-13
- 1927
- 2 hr 21 min
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7.6 (14,792)
Wings is a 1927 American silent war film set during World War I. The film follows the story of two young men, Jack Powell (Charles 'Buddy' Rogers) and David Armstrong (Richard Arlen), who are in love with the same woman, Sylvia Lewis (Jobyna Ralston). Jack and David are both from the same small town in America and become friends after David saves Jack from getting into trouble. They both enlist in the Army Air Service and become military aviators. However, their friendship is soon tested when they both fall in love with Sylvia, a beautiful and popular girl in their town.
As they train and prepare to go to war in France, their friendship becomes strained as they compete for Sylviaâs affections. However, once they arrive in Europe, they must work together as a team in order to survive the dangers of flying in battle.
The film offers an authentic depiction of air combat and features some of the most spectacular aerial sequences ever filmed, including dogfights, bombings, and aerial reconnaissance. It was one of the first films to emphasize the importance of aerial warfare and the crucial role played by aviators in winning the war.
In addition to its stunning aerial scenes, Wings also includes a touching love story and explores themes of friendship, sacrifice, and camaraderie in times of war. It also features an excellent cast, including silent film star Clara Bow, who plays Mary Preston, a young woman who becomes an army nurse and falls in love with Jack. Bowâs performance is especially noteworthy, as she was said to have stolen every scene she was in.
The film was directed by William A. Wellman, himself a World War I veteran and former aviator. He brought his own experiences to the movie and made sure that the aerial scenes were as realistic as possible.
Wings was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and went on to win the first ever Academy Award for Best Picture in 1928. It was praised for its technical achievements, particularly its aerial sequences, which were groundbreaking for their time.
The film also launched the careers of Rogers and Arlen, who both went on to have successful acting careers. In addition, it helped to establish Bow as one of the most popular leading ladies in Hollywood.
Overall, Wings is a classic film that is still regarded as one of the greatest war movies ever made. It offers a thrilling and realistic view of air combat, as well as a compelling story of love, friendship, and sacrifice. With its groundbreaking special effects, impressive cast, and timeless themes, Wings remains a must-see for film fans of all ages.
Wings is a 1927 drama with a runtime of 2 hours and 21 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.6.