Review of Air Force One (1997) by Clark B — 26 Oct 2010

The basic premise of "Die Hard" on a place sounds interesting enough. With Peterson on board (no pun intended), the acclaimed director of Das Boot, I though the setting would make for an interesting action-thriller against the backdrop of an unusual and first and foremost isolated & claustrophobic environment. Alas, the basic plot is not bad but the idea of having the president of the US kidnapped instead of some tough cop or renegade agent is the ultimate downfall of the film.

Of course, the fact that the president is the target of the Russian terrorists (how innovative) makes for more shock value and interesting scenes on the ground, as The White House is running in circles about what to do. But apart from this few advantages the "American" plot bloats the movie into oblivion, no ten minutes pass without some patriotic crap, people saluting to the president, Goldsmiths' terrible soundtrack is an ode to American heroes and of course the blabbering, ugly moron Russians. I cringed so often during the film, it made for a good workout for my abs but it really made the feel less enjoyable, actually not all enjoyable. Yes, the basic idea and plot is ludicrous in the first place but topping it off with such a blatantly racist and patriotic layer makes it a gruesome ride.

And that despite the cast offering some big and good hollywood names. But what use are the likes of Ford, Oldman, Close and Macy when there is no script to support thei skills. The film includes almost no interesting scenes which revolve around dialogue, only shootout, stand-offs and quick one-liners. Moreover, all the supporting actors who are not getting the bucks are giving a hideous performance and it felt like watching a school play in parts, yes it was that bad.

Peterson's direction is awful and uninspired.

Disappointing, offensive and boring, stay away at all cost!

HX.