[Quick Summary: Leaving behind a new, pregnant wife, an army lieutenant and his crew rendezvous with the navy for a top secret mission. Based on a true story. ]
I was all prepared not to like this script about WWII. I'm simply bored by the over saturated political and "message" films.
However, this one managed to paint an interesting picture about cooperation - between Army and Navy, and between soldiers and allies in China.
Also, I really liked how the writer created a three-dimensional world.
One way was through the humor in character (ex. army soldier fleeced both army and navy colleagues alike) and humor in situation (scene below).
I particularly liked how the scene below rose in tension AND was humorous:
- Timing is crucial on this mission in the dark of morning.
- Since there are so many planes that must be deployed (and cannot be turned around), any non-starting aircraft would be shoved into the ocean.
- This is such an unexpected twist that increased the tension!
Red reaches forward, turns the switch, and the starter gets into action. Then we see the left motor. It gives a chug, turns over and stops. Then two more chugs. It stops again. The Navy crew in the background look serious, and move forward, prepared for the emergency of pushing the plane overboard if she doesn't function. The motor gives another helpless snort, and chokes out.
This cuts to the PILOT'S COMPARTMENT as Ted and Davenport exchange frantic looks. They work the starting button once more. There is another helpless little snort from the engine.
DAVENPORT: Those navy guys are moving up to push us over!
TED (viciously): They're not gonna toss this ship overboard! C'me on, baby -give-give...give...!
Another try at the starter, and this time there are four chugs. --This cuts to the LEFT MOTOR as she takes hold weakly, gives a dozen snorts, and suddenly grabs on; and to the NAVY CREW as they move back from the plane with looks of relief.
WHAT I'VE LEARNED: I really liked how relatable this script was: A guy wants to go home as soon as he can, but can't start his plane. Not philsophizing or preachy.
Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo (1944)
by Dalton Trumbo
Based on the book and Collier's story by Capt. Ted W. Lawson and Robert Considine
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