War is not my favourite genre when it comes to film, but it is a much appreciated one and re-visited every now and again. With there being so many brilliant, incredibly well made and important war films out there in each decade, and not just the First and Second World wars. The cast was another big selling point, have always had a thing for great casts, having often liked very much Fredric March and Cary Grant (the latter against type for back then).
'The Eagle and the Hawk' didn't disappoint. It is not quite one of the best and most important films in the genre, but it was to me at that point and still is nearly ninety years on one of the best war-set aviation films. 'The Eagle and the Hawk' is to me and many others a very powerful, emotionally moving and inspiring film, with some messaging, and it's exceptionally well written and performed across the board. Not optimistic and not an easy watch, but in no way is that a bad thing.
It is a shame that somewhat that lovely Carole Lombard is given so little to do, but although her screen time is small (and rather too brief) her presence is not.
March though is truly outstanding, his conflict being both intense and moving, giving one of his best earlier performances. Grant also excels in an atypical role for the time, not having as much of his usual urbane charm but more a hard-edged persona. Did worry that Jack Oakie would not be funny, would be annoying and would be out of place, but actually he proved to be amusing and welcome but not distracting levity that blended better than expected. In fact, casting-wise one couldn't have asked for better. The characters are well drawn and flaws and all they were not difficult to get behind. 'The Eagle and the Hawk' is very assuredly and sympathetically directed while having edge too.
Visually 'The Eagle and the Hawk' is accomplished, with atmospheric and beautifully framed photography in particular. The aerial footage is inserted with skill and with very little sign of awkwardness, it doesn't look cheap. The score didn't seem too loud or too constant and it's thoughtfully and sincerely scripted. The story has an unusual for the time bitterness and not many films at this point of film history were this strongly against war, but the film conveys this with conviction without being preachy in my view. Emotionally, it's powerful stuff and incredibly poignant. The action thrills, has intensity and brings a lump to the throat. The aviation sequences are similarly scintillating and have a real sense of authenticity. The ending stuck with me.
Altogether, great with a lot of emotional impact and a brilliant cast. 9/10
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