THOSE MAGNIFICENT MEN IN THEIR FLYING MACHINES (1965)
It's been a while since I discussed a classic. I regard movies made before 1970 and of some notability as classics. That is why, to my mind, Melody which I mentioned last time is not a classic (yet!).
This comedy with surely one of the longest titles ever is roughly based on aviation events of the early twentieth century. In takes place during 1910 when aeroplanes were little more than flying deathtraps. A newspaper mogul, Lord Rawnsley (Robert Morley) issues a challenge and fat cash reward to the first pilot to cross the English Channel. And supposedly, so is born the first grand international air race. The antics of the contestants from all over the world (there is even a pair from Japan) in the air as well as on the ground are hilarious.
The star studded international cast is excellent even at today's standards. Some of the most famous lines from this film are were our esteemed Lord tells his daughter (Sarah Miles) that he will not allow her to fly a plane because: "If God intended man to fly, he would have given him wings," whereto which she replies: "Daddy, if God wanted you to ride the train, He would have given you wheels." Furthermore the catchy theme tune went on to become hugely popular and reached the number one spot on the British Charts.
All in all this is fun to watch as it takes a poke at everyone but especially the Germans during pre-WWI times. This DVD is also still widely available and therefore highly recommended for you own collection. I rated it 3 out of 4 stars.
Trailer link:
Trailer link:
Some of the vintage planes specially recreated for the movie...
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