Clipped Wings
Mickey Lofton, young half-brother of famed war-aviator Jerry, fails in his attempt to enter the Canadian Air Corps, because of his fear of thunderstorms developed by an incident in his boyhood days. Jerry, now a Captain in the U.S. Department of Justice, is given an assignment to capture some border oil smugglers. Through his friendship with Raoul McGuire, one of the suspects, Jerry is accepted as a member of the gang. Mickey is in love with Raoul's sister, Molly. Gang leader Moran shoots and wounds Raoul, and is himself shot down by Jerry. Mickey flies Molly and her wounded brother to a hospital. Jerry takes off in another plane to guard Mickey's craft from a pursuing airplane, and crashes his plane into the gangster's plane but parachutes to safety.
Insights
Plot Summary
A group of delinquent youths are given a chance to reform by joining the Civilian Conservation Corps. However, their past troubles and the harsh realities of military life create new challenges. They must learn to work together and overcome their ingrained tendencies to find redemption. The film explores themes of rehabilitation and the struggle for a second chance.
Critical Reception
While not a major critical success, "Clipped Wings" was noted for its portrayal of troubled youth and its attempt to address social issues of the era. Its performances, particularly from the Dead End Kids, were generally seen as fitting for their roles, though the film's narrative structure and message have been described as somewhat formulaic by later critics.
What Reviewers Say
- The film offers a gritty look at juvenile delinquency.
- Performances by the young cast are a highlight.
- The narrative follows a predictable redemption arc.
Google audience: Audience reception for "Clipped Wings" is not widely documented, but its contemporary release suggests it resonated with audiences interested in social dramas of the time.
Fun Fact
This film is notable for being one of the early appearances of the actors who would become famous as "The Dead End Kids" or "The East Side Kids".
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