Devotion is a biographical war film based on a book by Adam Makos. The film is directed by J. D. Dillard and stars Jonathan Majors (Ant-Man and the Wasp), Glen Powell (Top Gun: Maverick), Christina Jackson (The Night House), Joe Jonas (Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation), Thomas Sadoski (John Wick), Serinda Swan (Redemption Day), Daren Kagasoff (Ouija), Nick Hargrove (Charmed), and Spencer Neville (The Obituary of Tunde Johnson).
If viewers are expecting another thrilling aviation flick on the heels of Top Gun: Maverick, they're in for a surprise. Devotion is a true tale of racism, heroism, and dedication. It tells the story of Jesse Brown (Majors), a stoic and reserved elite fighter pilot. As the only African American in his squadron, he is met with racism from both the press and other members of the military.
By the time he meets Thomas Hudner (Powell), he has already built a reputation of being an amazing pilot. While they sometimes butt heads, Jesse eventually shows Tom what it means to be a wingman and to truly be there for someone when everything is on the line. Devotion is the story of their friendship and the sacrifices they and their fellow airmen make in the Korean War.
The pacing is fantastic throughout and doesn't let up despite the 138-minute run time. The cinematography, score, and locations are also on point. Screenwriters Jake Crane and Jonathan Stewart did a brilliant job giving the talented cast a wonderful script to work off of.
While the acting is great all around, Jonathan Majors' portrayal of Jesse Brown is outstanding. Anytime Majors delivers a monologue, whether it is a story about his past or to school someone about their actions, he captivates the entire theater.
Where the movie lacks is its clarity of theme. It almost feels as though the film tries to do too much. Heroism, friendship, racism, and loyalty are all covered in equal measure. However, focusing on only one of those topics might have proven to be more impactful. The theme of Devotion is portrayed well with the bond of wingmen and soldiers, but also with Jesse's relationship with his wife Daisy (Jackson). But instead of building up the tension between Jesse and Tom, and then showing the growth of their relationship, it is watered down with everything else the film attempts to cover.
In addition, the trailer focuses mainly on Jesse Brown, which gives the illusion that the movie will be about him first, and his friendship with Tom second. However, the movie doesn't delve deeply enough into Brown as a character, his achievements, or his heroism.
Devotion is a powerful film filled with superbly choreographed aerial action scenes, emotional twists, and characters worth rooting for. While the themes may be diluted, they are still important. It is a compelling glimpse into the life of Jesse Brown, a true American hero.