Any film about fighter pilots to come out in the next few years will always be, for better or worse, compared to Top Gun: Maverick (2022). It may not be fair, but that’s just the reality of the situation. Maverick ended up being far better than anyone really expected, and the aerial sequences may never be rivaled. I was never a fan of the 1986 original, but this sequel floored me. so, while First-time filmmaker Xiaoshi Liu delivered a successful film with Born to Fly, it is difficult for anyone to impress in Maverick’s wake.
Lei Yu (Yibo Wang) is a test pilot in the Chinese Air Force who is recruited to take part in a new program that would afford him the opportunity to help improve their efficiency. He’s focused on his training but still finds time to rub fellow pilot Deng Fang (Yosh Yu) and catch the eye of Shen Tianran (Dongyu Zhou) his doctor, as well as continuing threats from a foreign entity. Despite the distractions, he tries to maintain his focus, but does he have what it takes to be the best of the best?
Born to Fly has a lot going for it. The performance from Yibo Wang is quite notable. He has a likability that helps draw you into the plight of his character; you feel his pain, frustration, and, most importantly, his determination. The film bears only a slight resemblance to Top Gun, with Born to Fly focusing more on the history of the military in China than the human drama. For those who enjoy military history, then this is a film for you.
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I had read some articles stating they felt the aerial scenes were better than those in the Top Gun films, but I had to disagree. There was some noticeable (though still well-done) CGI that took me out of the moment. Most of my critiques are just personal preferences, so just take what I say with a grain of salt. While I appreciate and honor the military and those who serve, these movies aren’t always for me.
The film is presented in Widescreen in Mandarin with English subtitles, which is the only way to watch it; a dubbed version would destroy it. Well Go USA never disappoints with its transfers, and this is no exception. Although I had some issues with it, I was invested in Lei Yu’s story, and his quest for excellence was inspiring. It was when the focus shifted away from him that I found myself struggling to pay attention.
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