Wings in the Dark (1935)

Wings in the Dark Poster

In his dedicated pursuit of technology that will aid pilots to safely "fly blind" during adverse conditions. aerial innovator Ken Gordon is literally blinded in an accident, but this setback doesn't deter him from his goal.

Title: Wings in the Dark

Intro:
"Wings in the Dark" is a movie set in the 1930s about courage, innovation, and love, linking the world of air travel and the paradoxes of human relationships. The movie is directed by James Flood and stars the renowned Myrna Loy and Cary Grant.

Plot:
The plot centers around Ken Gordon (Cary Grant), an air travel genius and his love interest, Sheila Mason (Myrna Loy), a bold stunt pilot. Gordon is in the process of creating a gadget that will enable pilots to fly in the dark or in thick fog. Sadly, he is blinded in a lab mishap while in the procedure of his experiments. As a result, he loses his pilot's license and his girlfriend, Sheila.

Sheila's Role:
Despite their separation, Sheila continues supporting Ken economically by carrying out hazardous stunts at air programs. She not just adds to his research but also conceals her work from him to guarantee he maintains his pride and confidence. Identified to raise Ken's spirits, Sheila provides herself as a successful starlet instead of confessing she risks her life as a stunt pilot.

Climax:
The drama culminates when Sheila takes off on a transcontinental flight from New York to Paris during a thick fog. Her airplane stops working, leaving her spiraling blindly in the dark sky. Learning of her hazard, Ken daringly flies to her rescue, utilizing the ingenious device he has developed. Assisted entirely by his experimental navigation device, he handles to save Sheila effectively, offering the world with a demonstration of his invention's efficiency.

Conclusion:
Upon their return, Ken regains his sight through a surgical treatment funded by the royalties from his brand-new device. The film ends with Sheila admitting her true job as a stunt pilot, and Ken proposing marital relationship, stating that they are two of a kind who live for risk.

Theme:
"Wings in the Dark" wonderfully illustrates that physical impairment can not shroud a man's decision and innovative impulse, signifying the indomitable human spirit. The two protagonist exhibit bravery, decision, and perseverance, albeit their respective difficulties. The movie also subtly highlights the gender characteristics of the 1930s, where Sheila, the female protagonist, challenges stereotypes with her reckless stunts and independent spirit, while maintaining her womanly grace and level of sensitivity.

Performances:
"Wings in the Dark" is notable for the remarkable acting efficiencies by Cary Grant and Myrna Loy. Grant beautifully represents the inventor and pilot who, despite his loss of sight, victories over his unfavorable situation to save the day. Loy, on the other hand, illustrates a different type of courage as she displays her character's careless bravery and earnest love for Grant.

General:
"Wings in the Dark" is more than just an aviation movie from the 1930s. It's a testimony to the perseverance of the human spirit and the strength of decision in the face of misfortune. It provides a mix of excitement, innovation, love, and drama, making it a captivating watch.

Top Cast

  • Myrna Loy (small)
    Myrna Loy
    Sheila Mason
  • Cary Grant (small)
    Cary Grant
    Ken Gordon
  • Roscoe Karns (small)
    Roscoe Karns
    Nick Williams
  • Hobart Cavanaugh (small)
    Hobart Cavanaugh
    Mac
  • Dean Jagger (small)
    Dean Jagger
    Top Harmon
  • Russell Hopton (small)
    Russell Hopton
    Jake Brashear
  • Matt McHugh (small)
    Matt McHugh
    1st Mechanic
  • Graham McNamee
    Radio Announcer
  • Lightning the dog (small)
    Lightning the dog
    Lightning - Ken's Dog (uncredited)
  • Rosemary Theby (small)
    Rosemary Theby
    Rockwell's Secretary (uncredited)