Hal Forrest's "Tailspin Tommy" comic strip was turned into a movie series by Monogram -- there was at least one earlier B movie produced by C.C. Burr. This, the second of the series, is a pretty good movie about the problems of Tommy's friends at a troubled movie shoot he is stunting for.
I attribute this to a lot of talent picked up on the cheap by Monogram, some excellent stunt flying by Wally West and graceful cinematography by Fred Jackman Jr. Some of the actors, like Jason Robards Sr., were down on their luck. Some, like Marjorie Reynolds and Milburn Stone, were starting out; and a few never got noticed by the more prosperous studios. The same was true about the behind-the-camera crew. Hollywood always had a lot more competent and even excellent talent than it knew what to do with.
I do have issues with the writing. Every plot point is over-explained for my taste. However, that is a relatively minor cavil. Monogram was willing to spend money on this one, and it shows. Enjoy!
I attribute this to a lot of talent picked up on the cheap by Monogram, some excellent stunt flying by Wally West and graceful cinematography by Fred Jackman Jr. Some of the actors, like Jason Robards Sr., were down on their luck. Some, like Marjorie Reynolds and Milburn Stone, were starting out; and a few never got noticed by the more prosperous studios. The same was true about the behind-the-camera crew. Hollywood always had a lot more competent and even excellent talent than it knew what to do with.
I do have issues with the writing. Every plot point is over-explained for my taste. However, that is a relatively minor cavil. Monogram was willing to spend money on this one, and it shows. Enjoy!
