THE AVIATORS* (Video Release USA 2009)

Ben Meyers’ rating: 3.1|5.0 Starsììì

The Aviators seems thrown together and works on a small storyline. This animated film’s weak characterizations and portrayal work almost at the unintelligible level. It’s a 2008 Spain animation movie that debuted within the United States as a video release in 2009. Before going to this film, be sure and read the Wikipedia article about the World War I homing pigeon, Cher Ami, and discuss the role of homing pigeons during World War I with your children. This will increase their understanding of the plot line and their appreciation for the value of homing pigeons during early war effort.

Film Poster Courtesy of Google Images

Storyline

This film is meant to be a tribute to homing pigeon service during World War I. In particular there was a homing pigeon, Cher Ami, who saved nearly 200 lives during World War I. Despite Cher Ami’s multiple wounds (shot in the breast, blinded, and with one leg missing) she flew 25 miles to deliver a message that saved soldier lives.

Additional Thanks

Thank you to Director Miguel Pujol for directing effort. Thank you to Executive Producers Jordi Castelltort, Kieth Merrill, Peter Rancie for making the film possible. Additional characters/cast include: Soldiers (voice of Phil Austin), Victor (voice of Cyrille Autin), Cher Ami (voice of Yann Bean), Sergeant Grey (voice of Robert Berliner), Narrator (voice of John Bolen), McBomb (voice of Arsenio Corsellas), Charlie/Kids Sparrows (voice of Bryan Forrest), Linberg (Jeff Foxworthy), Sargento Gris (voice of Juan Carlos Gustems), and Paloma Francesa (voice of Miguel Ángel Jenner).

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?

Maybe. While the voice casting is great, the story does not flow well. The movie needs to be remade and NOT as an animation piece for children. The World War I homing pigeons deserve more respect than this film affords. Read a plotline and discuss before you go.

*Also known as Cher Ami or Flying Heroes

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers