(1943)
3
Craig Butler
A moderately entertaining propaganda film, Bombardier undoubtedly meant more to war time audiences than it will to modern viewers. In 1943, with the outcome of the war still in doubt, the go-for-it, get 'em boys attitude of Bombardier would have had an emotional resonance that will be lacking for audiences nowadays. As a result, the more obvious and blatant manipulations in the story and the black-and-white nature of the story will dampen some viewers' enthusiasm. However, there are some genuinely dramatic moments that play quite affectingly on genuine emotion, and these greatly aid in making the film involving. The major conflict between Pat O'Brien and Randolph Scott feels forced and artificial, but the actors play it well and with believability. And while director Richard Wallace paces things a bit unevenly, he does make sure that the final portion of Bombardier has the impact it needs to bring things home. Special effects are quite good for the time, enough so that CGI-disposed viewers won't complain or scoff. O'Brien and Scott are fine throughout, Anne Shirley is good, and Eddie Albert is noteworthy in a showy part.
Bombardier on AllMovie
Bombardier (1943)
