Every now and then, it’s fun to go back and revisit the films we watched growing up. I don’t know that The Rocketeer is one of those I had on repeat, but I did see it a fair share of times.
The Rocketeer (1991) Disney Film Review
Preparing to fly in the nationals in their new aircraft is something pilot, Cliff Secord (Bill Campbell) has grand plans for. Along with his friend Peevy (Alan Arkin), they now have the perfect aircraft. This event is something they hope will earn them some real money instead of the nothing they get for playing literal clowns. However while on a test run the plane is shot down by a curious car chase involving the FBI! Further strange is the unusual backpack-like device Cliff finds stashed in their shed in the aftermath of the chaos. Turns out, the funny looking creation allows man to fly, which is something that just may change Cliff’s life entirely. Only it may not be for the better.
Quite recently I featured this film with a ‘movie anniversary’ and have been thinking back on the film ever since then. It’s one of those “different” movies that I don’t normally gush over (or maybe I do). Here however, whether it’s nostalgia talking or not, this is also one of those I have to admit is just, plain and simple, good.
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One of the things I like most about this film is its old fashion vintage “look.” It’s something the film does extremely well and is full on excellent in doing. There are scenes that feel as though they literally will pull you into this era. The costumes are pretty and cool, and fit nicely in with whatever the scene is. Meaning it transports us as it creates this specific “feeling.” The sets and locations work well with everything too (have to love that old Hollywood vibe). All in all, the production and creative teams of this film tie everything together so that its 1930 setting authentically celebrates its era.
Of course, equally good is its cast. Campbell was more unknown at the time (and not popular when it came to exec casting) but we also see Timothy Dalton and a young Jennifer Connelly (now married to Paul Bettany). In a nutshell, this is just a fun, kind of vintage Disney film that entertains. It’s imperfect and there’s probably some corny aspects, but it’s got some sass (good quips) and more serious moments. Most of all, it’s got spirit which is the perfect kind of watch going into this weekend.
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Content: there’s some tense moments and death [one man beats up on others and murders some at the orders of another]. There may be a minor innuendo or two; a woman is taken somewhere without her consent. The film is PG.
Photos: Disney
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