“Red Tails”… A History Lesson for the Books!

“We Fight! We Fight! We Fight!”

This movie did just that! FIGHT!! Red Tails made it very clear from the start to the beginning, movies such as this one deserve to be placed in high regard just like any other Hollywood film and should not be ignored. And to think this project took 20 years to make…tisk tisk tisk.

Here is a positive, inspiring, and uplifting story that speaks to the masses while at the same time telling an important story in history. Keeping in mind that Red Tails is based on actual events, one should expect a bit of dramatization will exist in order for there to be some artistic expression. However in almost sheer perfection the look and feel of the film is genuinely authentic. Considering that most of the battles are in the air, there is that slight loss of the gritty and griminess of a battle being fought on land, but the film is about airmen so it is only appropriate.

Red Tails is one those 'cleverly-created' films that utilizes something of a methodic approach to telling the story partly because it's reliable and also because its clear and directly to the point. Let’s face it this is a war film minus a huge amount of blood shed that is to be expected, yet it still tells an accurate story of racial prejudice and the mighty men that prevail in spite of its ugliness. Without a shadow of doubt this film pushes all the buttons, it gets every emotional reactions expected, it evokes much needed laughter, simply put it was long overdue but worth the wait. These quick-wit squad fighters pretty much take on every mission allocated to them, regardless of how apparently unimportant and get the job done with prestige and honor. Eventually, when given a true opportunity to shine this unit demands to be heard and given the chance to prove they are worthy to fight in this war. This along with their unorthodox style of flying and fighting is what makes them unique and distinctive.


And nothing is more intriguing than a beautiful setting to go along with this wonderful story! The photography is breathtaking, stylish and handsome costuming and striking art direction. Each shot was strategically choreographed and composed so gracefully that it evolves visually like a storybook that is read to your child just before they go to bed. The cinematography has the look of an absolute divergence to the colorless photography of a film like Saving Private Ryan; but more like the flawlessly-lit photography of Michael Bay's Pearl Harbor. George Lucas’ production expertise is definitely seen through out the film as damn near every shot is perfection.

And lest we not forget the handsome ensemble of this all-black cast that made this film possible. There is no denying the skill and genius in each of these gifted actors as each one of them portray true soldiers of war, The Tuskegee Airmen. With much delight, Red Tails is jam-packed with a wide cadre of talent in the cast, the film has just the right mix of mid to very seasoned actors (Terrence Howard, Cuba Gooding Jr, Nate Parker, and Andre Royo) to some bright newcomers and folks we have not seen in a while (David Oyelowo, Tristan Wilds, Elijah Kelley, and Marcus Paulk) so much so that you would think many of these actors lived and breathed each others air the way they meshed together. In their own special way, they bring to the screen a mixture of experiencing prejudice and adversity, but also falling in love and forever bonds of friendship. This is what I call a perfect selection of cast members!!

Overall, this film did an excellent job of showcasing a group of dedicated, committed, and heroic soldiers who fought in war that did not necessarily want them fighting in. This movie deserves to be in the spotlight and supported in every way!! However what would have been nice is to maybe add about another 20-30 minutes and provide a bit more dialogue along with more character development and plot exploration. I understand that there are numerous stories to be told, but maybe just giving the audience a little bit more would’ve quenched their thirst. With several backstories and a range of emotions I think this would have strengthened the overall plot and story. If nothing else the viewer left the movie happy but desiring just a little more. 


Red Tails is without doubt a film that deserves your attention and your dollars. It is not often that a film of this caliber comes around, and it would be a shame if it were the last. Whether young or old, male or female, black or white, there is a message for everyone. One in particular is that of,  “Going Big or Going Home!” When it is all said and done after watching this film I have a greater appreciation and respect for individuals like George Lucas and Anthony Hemmingway, because they did what they had to do and wanted to do, despite what Hollywood thinks!

Matter fact I just may need to see it again, and you can bet on it that this will be part of the collection. A classic in the making! And a special thanks to a good friend of mine Sojourner Grimmett for the passes, truly a treat!!

Rating: 4 out 5 stars