Review of The Rocketeer (1991) by Matthew D — 18 Jul 2018

A fun time like no other!

Joe Johnston directed a really entertaining comic book adaptation of The Rocketeer. This movie is still tons of fun. Johnston's 1991 film is filled with action, humor, and a sweet sense of American patriotism. It is not the best movie ever made with its campy special effects and goofy mobster underlings, but you will enjoy The Rocketeer for sure.

Bill Campbell plays the lead Cliff Secord. He is unfortunately only likable and not very charming. He delivers lines well enough, but he never astounds you. Unlike, Timothy Dalton who gives a stellar performance as Neville Sinclair. You will never forget this role of Dalton drifting seamlessly from emotion to emotion. Jennifer Connelly is as lovely as ever in a very sincere and sweet portrayal of the Cliff's girlfriend Jenny Blake. Unfortunately, Connelly is wasted and relegated to a merely damsel in distress type role, but she plays it well with heart. Lastly, I rather enjoyed Alan Arkin's grumpy matter of fact tone delivery for all his lines. He is really funny here as usual. In all, The Rocketeer is carried by Dalton's fantastic acting and elevated by Connelly's presence.

James Horner's music is uplifting and rousing. Horner's score is symbolic of old American and sounds like a staple of patriotism and thematic scoring. He builds up a warm atmosphere that makes you feel at home instantly. Horner does great work with his compositions for The Rocketeer.

In conclusion, The Rocketeer remains a forgotten cult classic that is worth revisiting. Families and adults alike will be pleasantly surprised with what The Rocketeer will give them.