Under the lens takes a deep look at films by focusing in on one or two particular areas of the picture that helped to define it for better or for worse.
Devotion is a 2022 war biopic that follows the story of a pair of U.S. Navy fighter pilots who risk their lives during the Korean War and become some of the Navy’s most celebrated wingmen. It stars Glenn Powell, Joe Jonas, and Jothanthen Majors. It was Directed by J.D Dillard.
UNDER THE LENS: Slice of Life and Cinematography
Slice of life: Devotion markets itself as a war picture, and while it is, it also is a quiet character drama. It endeavors to show a slice of life, for the Navy Pilots it centers on, showing what they fight for, and also the teamwork and comradery they share. I went in expecting a nonstop aerial combat spectacle, and while I did get some great sequences of combat.
I loved that at the end of the day, this was a picture of two men who risked their lives for each other and the friendship they had. By the time the credits rolled, I felt like I had a better understanding of who these men were and not just what they fought for.
Cinematography: Devotion has some beautiful cinematography, especially the action sequences, sure the CGI is not perfect. However it’s not poor enough to distract from the action taking place. We get some very nice shots as the planes take off, and some POV views from the cockpit and wings or tails of the airplanes. Most of the shots are from the point of view of one or more of the pilots and this further pushes the personal and up-close perspective of the picture.
HIGHLIGHTS
- It was refreshing that the story does not focus on racism, but on the friendship of two men, the aspect of race exists, but its not the main focal point of the picture.
- The picture manages to showcase the supporting cast well, giving up quiet moments to show who they are and what they stand for.
- The focus on this “Forgotten War” was very interesting
QUOTABLE QUOTE
Dick Cevoli: The real battle in all of life is being someone that people can count on. And that isn’t defined in a single moment. You earn that with a lifetime of showing ups
SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT
How far would you go to defend or save a friend?
CONCLUSION
Overall Devotion is a war picture but it’s more the story of two men’s friendship, and how war brought them and their families together for generations to follow. It delivers emotional resonance and some exciting action setpieces, however, at times does suffer from some obvious CGI. It is anchored by strong performances by Glenn Powell and Jothanthen Majors who truly make these real-life characters come to life. I appreciated this unknown story being brought to the screen, one that was about friendship and sacrifice, if you are a fan of war pictures or bromances, then you will not want to miss Devotion.
