The story of Amelia Earhart is that of a pioneer of not only flying but also of gender equality. It is a tale of the epic struggle of a woman who loved to fly and desperately wanted to be the best. No content to just settle for achieving the general standards in aviation, Earhart was always looking to push the boundaries and pioneer new levels of flying skill right up to her disappearance in 1937.
So to take such an epic moment in modern history and translate that passion and adventure on to the big screen would have to be a momentous undertaking. However in the situation of “Amelia” this has not been attained to the best possible outcome.
“Amelia” begins in the early days of Earhart’s career as a pilot, as we see her meet George Putnam (Gere) who would go on to not only manage her celebrity career but also become the second love of her life after flying. Although the chemistry between them is bearable to real sense of drama throughout these early moments is pretty much non-existent. Although quite historical in feel, with the not completely successful blending of real and filmed footage, “Amelia” really focuses unsuccessfully on the relationship between Earhart and Putnam.
Of course there are some really nice positives in this film too, for example it features stunning locations, camera angles and some of the best atmospheric sweeping “In flight” shots. The scene of Earhart flying through a storm and trying desperately to de-ice her wings is spectacular. As they circumnavigate the globe the locations come to life through the eyes of these beautifully and accurately restored old planes.
Unfortunately the movie feels rather flat with the only real drama packed tightly into the last 15 minutes. Which is no real surprise; in that overall it felt about half an hour too long. I have also come to the conclusion that Richard Gere works better when is partnered up with leading ladies who are more animated in style with larger than life personalities, ie Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman and Runaway Bride and Catherine Zeta Jones in Chicago. The low level flatness of Hilary Swank magnified Gere’s quite and brooding style rather than complimenting it.
See it on the big screen for the cinematography and on DVD for the storyline… as like in the cricket matches, you may need “drinks” breaks. Reviewed by: Jon E Clist Releases: 10th December 2009 Rating: PG Low level offensive language Running time: 111 minutes Genre: Drama Starring: Hillary Swank, Richard Gere, Christopher Eccleston & Ewan McGregor Director: Mira Nair
Comments are closed.
There is something about me..
