The Rocketeer: An Underrated Classic with Mixed Reviews
What is Your Opinion of the Movie The Rocketeer?
The Rocketeer, released in 1991 and directed by Joe Johnston, is a movie that captures a significant portion of my young adult memories. Working at Disney at the time, I had the unique experience of reading the script, seeing the pre-production materials, and watching the final film in the studio theater. It was an entertaining and visually thrilling experience, with a delightful blend of science fiction and nostalgia. However, it felt as though the movie didn't quite reach its full potential for grandeur and excitement.
Audience Reception and Critical Analysis
One of the enjoyable aspects of The Rocketeer is its seamless period setting. Set in 1938, it avoids the typical 1930s nostalgia gone wrong by staying true to the era. Additionally, the film's theme song is a simple yet catchy tune that stuck in my head for a week after watching the movie. The movie's aesthetic and overall vibe made it appealing, especially for those familiar with late 1930s history, film serials like Flash Gordon, and art-deco design.
However, like many Joe Johnston films, The Rocketeer initially fell short of its grand aspirations. The story revolves around an experimental one-man rocket pack that becomes a central target in a series of intrigues. Howard Hughes (played by Erroll Flynn and Neville Sinclair), Erroll Flynn's Nazi bosses, and test pilot Cliff Secord (played by Bill Campbell) all play crucial roles in the narrative. Jennifer Connelly's appearance in the film was a highlight, adding depth and intrigue to the movie.
The Cast and Performance
Joseph Gordon-Levitt's performance as the protagonist Cliff Secord was quite agreeable. Though not the breakout star, he had the potential for a more significant role in the future. Another standout was Timothy Dalton's portrayal of the antagonist Neville Sinclair. Dalton perfectly captured the worst aspects of Flynn's persona, making him one of the stronger parts of the film.
Additionally, the supporting cast delivered impressive performances. Terry O'Quinn was spot-on as Howard Hughes, giving a respectful and authentic portrayal of the legendary Hollywood figure. Alan Arkin, known for his versatility, played Cliff's mechanic, providing a memorable supporting role. Despite the overall good performances, one aspect that didn't quite meet expectations was the musical score by James Horner. Compared with his outstanding compositions from films like Legends of the Fall, The Rocketeer's score was a notch below, and a bit of a disappointment.
Conclusion: Underrated Yet Appealing
Despite these mixed reviews, The Rocketeer remains an underrated movie that, while it aimed to be great, almost did so. For a fun and visually appealing film, it succeeds in almost every way. It's a good movie, well worth watching. If you enjoy science fiction, period settings, and the appealing visual elements of late 1930s art, The Rocketeer is a film to consider.
In the end, The Rocketeer is a film that stays true to its roots, blending intriguing characters, a captivating narrative, and a stunning visual aesthetic. While it may not have reached its full potential, it's still a movie that deserves more attention and respect in the canon of science fiction and adventure films.
Overall, I highly recommend The Rocketeer, a film that easily makes it onto my list of most underrated movies, deserving of more recognition and appreciation.