This is our first review of a 'Silent Film' and we felt we should explain the ground rules of our rating. Though the 'Silent Film' is part of the visual medium it should not be considered in the same light as the 'Sound Film'. Nor is it a derivative of the 'Stage'. It is an entity of its own with a separate language, the art of acting in pantomime and visual expression. THE FLYING FLEET is a fine example of this medium. To be correct though, made in 1928 (release 1929) it is a transition 'Silent' by M.G.M. It came at the end of a twenty-five (25) year development of the feature 'Silent Film' starting with THE GREAT TRAIN ROBBERY (1903). So it had more then a piano, organ or orchestra a synchronized soundtrack. The soundtrack would be used to enhance the visuals and featured Music, Sound Effects and Voice Overs. The InterTitles carried the dialog of the principals (ie actors).
THE FLYING FLEET starts with the story of six (6) MidShipMen from just before their graduation. All six (6) are friends and going for the same goal, to become Naval Aviators. The story involves their careers. Four (4) of them FAIL for the following reasons; Trivial, Physical, Fear and Tragic. Two (2) succeed, STEVE (Ralph Graves) and TOMMY (Ramon Navarro) who become involved in a romantic triangle with ANITA (Anita Page). What follows is a standard service rivalry with a logical conclusion. Those familiar with the screenplays of Frank 'Spig' Wead have an instant advantage because he co-wrote it.
The United States Navy gave its "sanction" for the making of this film. Which meant its full support. So we are treated to what was then the latest in aircraft and technology. One (1) thing this film clearly illustrates is that the U.S.N. WAS NOT anti-air minded, contrary to bogus claims of General Billy Mitchell. The U.S.N. was very interested in the development of its air-power. The only restraints upon it were monetary and the technical developments of the time. The U.S.N. wisely invested its limited resources in developing its MEN the Aviators. The only AirCraft Carrier footage coming from the converted collier LANGLEY (CV1) a largely experimental unit useful only for training. LEXINGTON (CV2) and SARATOGA (CV3) commissioned in 1927 were not featured at all. Most likely because of their size, second only to the British BattleCruiser H.M.S. HOOD and their advanced features such as aircraft arrestor gear. At that time the U.S.N. thought (rightly) they had most powerful warships in the world.
This 'Silent Film' has much to offer the viewer as do many others. For those who have never watched a 'Silent Film' or have trouble watching one (1) we have a few tips that will help out. ONE (1), turn off all the lights and watch the film after dusk so there is no ambient light. The only light should be coming from your T.V. TWO (2) NO EATING you may have drinks but thats it. If anyone needs a refill or go to the washroom pause the film and DO NOT restart till everybody settles back down. THREE (3) 'EVERYBODY' keep your comments to yourself till the picture ends. In other words SHUTUP! No running commentary or criticism. Just because YOU don't get it does not mean you should spoil it for others or YOU do get it and your embarrassed, keep it to YOURSELF. WATCH, LEARN and ENJOY.
THE FLYING FLEET starts with the story of six (6) MidShipMen from just before their graduation. All six (6) are friends and going for the same goal, to become Naval Aviators. The story involves their careers. Four (4) of them FAIL for the following reasons; Trivial, Physical, Fear and Tragic. Two (2) succeed, STEVE (Ralph Graves) and TOMMY (Ramon Navarro) who become involved in a romantic triangle with ANITA (Anita Page). What follows is a standard service rivalry with a logical conclusion. Those familiar with the screenplays of Frank 'Spig' Wead have an instant advantage because he co-wrote it.
The United States Navy gave its "sanction" for the making of this film. Which meant its full support. So we are treated to what was then the latest in aircraft and technology. One (1) thing this film clearly illustrates is that the U.S.N. WAS NOT anti-air minded, contrary to bogus claims of General Billy Mitchell. The U.S.N. was very interested in the development of its air-power. The only restraints upon it were monetary and the technical developments of the time. The U.S.N. wisely invested its limited resources in developing its MEN the Aviators. The only AirCraft Carrier footage coming from the converted collier LANGLEY (CV1) a largely experimental unit useful only for training. LEXINGTON (CV2) and SARATOGA (CV3) commissioned in 1927 were not featured at all. Most likely because of their size, second only to the British BattleCruiser H.M.S. HOOD and their advanced features such as aircraft arrestor gear. At that time the U.S.N. thought (rightly) they had most powerful warships in the world.
This 'Silent Film' has much to offer the viewer as do many others. For those who have never watched a 'Silent Film' or have trouble watching one (1) we have a few tips that will help out. ONE (1), turn off all the lights and watch the film after dusk so there is no ambient light. The only light should be coming from your T.V. TWO (2) NO EATING you may have drinks but thats it. If anyone needs a refill or go to the washroom pause the film and DO NOT restart till everybody settles back down. THREE (3) 'EVERYBODY' keep your comments to yourself till the picture ends. In other words SHUTUP! No running commentary or criticism. Just because YOU don't get it does not mean you should spoil it for others or YOU do get it and your embarrassed, keep it to YOURSELF. WATCH, LEARN and ENJOY.