Watch The Tuskegee Airmen
- PG13
- 1995
- 1 hr 46 min
-
7.1 (6,618)
The Tuskegee Airmen is a historical drama film dating back to 1995, starring Laurence Fishburne, Allen Payne, and Malcolm-Jamal Warner. The movie is a tribute to the African-American pilots of World War II known as the Tuskegee Airmen. The film opens up in 1942, with America's entrance into World War II. It follows the story of a group of young men from Tuskegee, Alabama, who become the first African-American pilots in the U.S. military. The storyline is set when the country is still deeply segregated, and patriotism means different things to different people. The military's top brass quickly recognizes that the success of the war effort depends on having the best pilots, and thus, they form the Tuskegee program to train black pilots. But as the program takes off, it becomes clear that their success is contingent upon overcoming countless obstacles. The Tuskegee Airmen, directed by Robert Markowitz, depicts the tension and racism encountered by the pilots as they navigate their way through the youth training program. The film vividly portrays the racial prejudice and discrimination faced by black soldiers who were barred from fighting alongside white soldiers. Despite facing the discrimination, the squad worked tirelessly to become the capable airmen they were determined to be. The movie does not only focus on the pilots' experience in their training, but it also shows how their families and loved ones faced discrimination throughout the war. Laurence Fishburne takes on the lead role of Hannibal Lee, a skilled pilot who is determined to make the Tuskegee program to be a success. His character is responsible, confident, and hardworking, making him a natural-born leader, a trait that would be significant in bringing the group together. On the other hand, Allen Payne portrays the character of Walter Peoples, a fighter pilot, and Hannibal's lifelong friend. Payne's character came from a background of poverty, which made him equally passionate about fighting against racism and injustice. Finally, Malcolm-Jamal Warner played the role of Leroy Cappy, who becomes the wingman of Hannibal. Warner's character contributes comic relief and is always ready to crack a joke, which serves as a welcomed break from the movie's seriousness. The Tuskegee Airmen was shot on location in Fort Chaffee, Arkansas, which gives an authentic feel to the film. It provides a vibrant ambiance that helps add depth and realism into the settings. The film also includes stunning aerial stunts that make audiences feel like they are in the middle of the action. The director maintained the same level of accuracy in the costumes that were used, making it easier for the viewer to travel back in time. The Tuskegee Airmen has a well-written script and provides viewers with an emotional rollercoaster that touches on themes such as adversity, family, honor, courage, and patriotism. Everything is done in a way that feels authentic, which brings the viewer even closer to the events that took place. The film also features a beautiful and energizing score, composed by Lee Holdridge. It is almost impossible not to get pumped up each time the score is introduced during an intense moment. Wrapping up, The Tuskegee Airmen is a must-watch movie for any history lover or anyone interested in the fight against racism and injustice. It showcases the challenges faced by African-American pilots in the U.S military and their significant contributions to the war effort. The Tuskegee Airmen is also a testament to the resilience and courage of the human spirit, making it a timeless classic that leaves a significant impact on anyone who watches it.