Movie spotlight
Ace of Aces
In this action comedy the French boxer Jo Cavalier is charmed on the train to Berlin for the Olympics in Hitler's Germany by the little boy Simon Rosenblum who asks his autograph; when it turns out his adorable young fan is a Jewish orphan in danger of persecution, he risks his one shot at Olympic glory to save Simon and his family, helped only by a German officer-gentleman who became his friend in World War I, by an adventurous escape to Switzerland, Nazi troops on their heals and braving impossible odds in roller coaster-style.
Insights
Plot Summary
In 1917, a British fishing village is bombed by the Germans, killing the local consul. A young WWI pilot, Charles Brandon, takes it upon himself to seek revenge by flying an outdated biplane into Germany and assassinating the perpetrator. However, his efforts are hampered by a series of mishaps and an unlikely romance with a French singer.
Critical Reception
Ace of Aces received largely negative reviews from critics and was a box office disappointment. While some praised its comedic elements and Keel's performance, many found the plot to be thin and the execution lacking.
What Reviewers Say
The film attempts a comedic take on a WWI setting, but often falls flat.
Howard Keel's performance is a highlight, but cannot salvage the weak script.
The plot is often convoluted and lacks clear direction.
Google audience: Audience reception is sparse and generally lukewarm, with many finding the humor forced and the storyline unengaging.
Fun Fact
The film was shot in France, utilizing various locations to depict the French countryside and WWI settings.
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