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. Spoilers will be included in this review.
The Rocketeer is a 1991 action thriller motion picture from director Joe Johnston, and Timothy Dalton, Jennifer Connelly, and Billy Campbell. It follows a young pilot who stumbles onto a prototype jetpack that allows him to become a high-flying masked hero, he then discovers he has fallen into a sinister conspiracy involving the mob and a hidden Nazi spy.
Under The Lens: Tone & Characters
Tone: While this is a broad topic, The Rocketeer manages to capture the feel of a 1930s serial, in many ways the picture was an MCU picture before the MCU. Its funny, exciting, and at times even scary, but its never not FUN. I loved this picture growing up and was curious to rewatch it to see how well it holds up today, surprisingly like a fine wine, I found it had actually improved, its narrative is perfectly paced by lovable characters, thrilling action, and a glimpse into a world that is no longer (and maybe never was). The characters are always in over their heads yet never in enough danger to worry the viewer and even the villains are quippy and love to play to an audience.
Characters: One of the pictures strongest aspects is its cast of memorable characters, Timothy Dalton chews the scenery as the dastardly nazi spy Neville Sinclair, dashing and handsome he plays up his fame while conspiring with Germany. Jennifer Connelly is the strong yet beautiful Jenny, Connelly slew the hearts of many a young man in 91 (myself included). The Cast is rounded out by Alan Arkin as a slightly mad inventor and Terry O’Quinn as a normal Howard Hughes. Everyone in the cast plays their character well and even the smaller roles are very memorable, it really felt like everyone in the picture had a great time making it. I honestly can’t say anyone in the picture feels miscast, each one contributes to the narrative in some way.
Highlights
The picture has some scary moments involving the giant hitman Lothor played by actor Tiny Ron.
The effects of the zeppelin crash still hold up to this day and is every bit as thrilling 20 years later.
The picture has a sweeping soundtrack that adds gravitas and old-world Hollywood feel to the film
Something to think about
What would you do if you discovered a piece of incredible technology?
Conclusion
Overall The Rocketeer is an incredibly fun throwback to the 1930’s adventure pictures, it stars a handsome cast that clearly loves the roles they are playing but also takes them seriously enough to play them straight (abet with a bit of levity). Its early CGI mixed with practical effects holds up well to this day as does its story. Its simply a blast to watch, and stands out as one of the forerunners of the “MCU formula” of filmmaking.