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Airspeed

Airspeed (1998)

Aug 18, 1998 1h 38m Adventure Action

When wealthy executive Raymond Stone sends out his private plane to pick up his spoiled teenage daughter, Nicole, and a pair of his top-ranking employees, disaster strikes. While the jet flies through an electrical storm, the pilot and other passengers are incapacitated, and Nicole is left on her own to keep the plane in the air, guided by an air traffic controller. Can the irresponsible and panic-stricken teen find a way to land the jet?

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Directed by Robert Tinnell

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Robert Tinnell

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Thematic Analysis

This high-octane Adventure/Action film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Airspeed distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.

Director Robert Tinnell brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 1998, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Airspeed took approximately 15 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 98 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 139 minutes long.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
  • The film contains approximately 1675 individual shots.
  • The costume department created over 408 unique costume pieces for the production.

Historical Context

  • In 1998, when this film was released:
  • The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
  • Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

While Airspeed shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children, which focuses more on action than character development, Airspeed offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Goldfinger and Pearl Harbor explore similar territory, Airspeed stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: August 18, 1998
  • Runtime: 1h 38m

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