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Mel Gibson is one of Hollywood’s most beloved leading men, but did you know that he starred in an action-packed comedy about the CIA’s secret airline during the Vietnam War? That’s right, we’re talking about Air America, a 1990 film directed by Roger Spottiswoode and based on the book by Christopher Robbins. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the movie, its cast, and its legacy.
The Plot: A Wild Ride Through Southeast Asia
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The plot of Air America revolves around the exploits of a group of pilots working for the titular airline, which is actually a front for the CIA’s covert operations in Laos during the Vietnam War. Gibson plays Gene Ryack, a maverick pilot who loves to bend the rules and take risks, while Robert Downey Jr. co-stars as Billy Covington, a greenhorn who is assigned to fly with him. Together, they get caught up in a web of intrigue, danger, and hilarity as they transport drugs, weapons, and refugees through the war-torn landscape of Southeast Asia.
The Cast: A Star-Studded Ensemble
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Air America boasts an impressive ensemble cast, with Gibson and Downey Jr. leading the way. Other notable actors include Nancy Travis as Gibson’s love interest, Art LaFleur as a grizzled veteran pilot, and Lane Smith as a corrupt CIA official. The movie also features a number of memorable cameos, such as Tim Thomerson as a gunrunner and David Marshall Grant as a smarmy journalist. All in all, the cast brings a lot of energy and chemistry to the film, making it a joy to watch.
The Production: A Troubled Shoot
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Despite its star power and promising premise, Air America was plagued by problems during production. The shoot took place in Thailand, where the crew had to deal with extreme heat, tropical storms, and language barriers. There were also tensions between the director and the studio, which wanted a more lighthearted tone than Spottiswoode was aiming for. Additionally, Gibson’s personal life was in turmoil at the time, as he was going through a divorce and struggling with alcoholism. All of these factors contributed to a rocky production that went over budget and over schedule.
The Reception: Mixed Reviews and Modest Box Office
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When Air America was released in August of 1990, it received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised its high-flying action and irreverent humor, while others criticized its uneven tone and lack of depth. The movie also faced competition from other summer blockbusters, such as Total Recall, Ghost, and Die Hard 2. Despite these obstacles, Air America managed to earn $31 million at the box office, which was enough to recoup its production costs but not enough to make it a major hit. Over the years, it has gained a cult following among fans of Gibson and ’90s action comedies.
The Legacy: A Fun, Forgotten Gem
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So, what is the legacy of Air America? Well, it may not be a classic of the genre like Lethal Weapon or Die Hard, but it’s still a fun, forgotten gem that deserves more recognition. It’s a movie that combines thrilling aerial stunts, witty banter, and a dash of political satire, all while showcasing the talents of a charismatic cast. It’s also a snapshot of a bygone era, when Hollywood was willing to take risks on quirky, offbeat projects. If you haven’t seen Air America yet, give it a chance and see why it’s worth remembering.
