(1946)
2.5
Craig Butler
William Wellman, director, producer and co-writer of Gallant Journey, was something of an aviation nut, so one assumes that he had some sort of personal connection to Journey, a biopic about glider pioneer John J. Montgomery. However, if that's the case, he kept that personal connection off the screen. There's little spark in the film, and spark is what this kind of story needs. What was it about Montgomery that so intrigued Wellman that he would make this film? That's hard to say, as what is on the screen is a by-the-numbers story about following one's own dream and fighting to overcome obstacles, even if your determination ultimately is your downfall. This is certainly a worthwhile message, but Wellman couches it in a story that has little personality or life of its own. One keeps waiting for a scene to appear that bears a really personal stamp, that has a life and depth and drive of its own, but one waits in vain. Nothing in Journey feels truly heartfelt, just professional. It's easy to watch, and Wellman and his cast make it painless. But there's no compelling reason to stick with it.
Gallant Journey on AllMovie
Gallant Journey (1946)
