'Amelia' a movie for all lovers of aviation

By: Ainsley Robson

Posted: 11/17/09

The movie "Amelia" is a biography that follows Amelia Earhart (Hilary Swank) during the rise of her popularity and to the disappearance of her aircraft over the Pacific during her attempt to fly around the world. The movie opens with the start of her amazing attempt to fly around the world in 1937, but shortly after the takeoff of her flight, we are whisked away to 1928 when Earhart was on the brink of obtaining her fame. Quickly though you realize that the movie is mainly about Earhart reviewing her life during her around-the-world flight in 1937.

One of the first things that stood out to me was the outstanding photography that was in this movie, especially with the flight scenes where the Electra is flying over beautiful landscapes around the world. This movie is also wonderfully narrated by Hilary Swank, who is recalling letters and memoirs of Amelia Earhart.

I found this movie to be a struggle of Amelia's love for flight and her love for George Putman (Richard Gere). Although being a female in the aviation industry, I was more torn towards Amelia's love for flight and the new challenges that were presented to aviators in her time. The movie also recognizes many of her contributions and accomplishments to the aviation world, such as starting an all-women air race that was as challenging as the men's race, and helping to start the 99's. It was nice to see the group that she started, which is still in existence today and even active on ERAU.

Although I don't want to tell too much so I don't ruin the movie I would encourage all to enjoy this movie. I know that it is out in limited release, but it was worth the short trip to Ormond Beach to watch. I will leave you with, "But you don't have to take my word for it," just like in Reading Rainbow.