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Genres
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DirectorPeyton Wilson
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Release Date2008
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Runtime1 hr 30 min
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LanguageEnglish
Speed and Angels is a documentary film that tells the story of two Navy fighter pilots, Jay "Faceshot" Consalvi and Meagan "Vegas" Varley, as they go through the challenging and rigorous training to become aviators on the F-14 Tomcat fighter jet. This inspiring and engaging film is directed by Peyton Wilson, and it takes the viewer on a thrilling journey through the world of naval aviation, giving a behind-the-scenes look at the grueling training, harrowing missions, and profound camaraderie that goes into serving as a naval aviator.
The film begins by introducing the audience to Consalvi and Varley, two young pilots who are determined to become the best F-14 aviators they can be. Through interviews with the pilots, their families, and other members of the Navy community, we learn about the incredible commitment, training, and skill required to become a fighter pilot. We see these two young pilots embark on the long and challenging process of joining the elite ranks of the Navy's fighter pilot community.
The film does an excellent job of giving viewers a sense of the intense physical and mental demands placed on Consalvi and Varley during their training. We see them go through grueling physical conditioning exercises, including running, weightlifting, and swimming, as well as high-intensity flight simulations that test their reaction times and ability to think on their feet. The sheer volume of information that these pilots must memorize in order to fly these complex aircraft is staggering, and the film does an excellent job of conveying the sheer magnitude of the task before them.
As the pilots progress through their training, they face numerous challenges and setbacks, both physical and emotional. Consalvi struggles with a severe injury that threatens to derail his dreams of becoming an F-14 aviator, while Varley faces the emotional challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated field. Despite these challenges, both pilots show an unwavering commitment to their dreams and to each other, and they continue to push themselves to new heights.
One of the most impressive aspects of this film is its depiction of the beauty and power of the F-14 Tomcat itself. Through stunning aerial footage, we get a sense of the sheer speed and agility of these fighter jets, as well as the incredible level of skill required to fly them. The film also does an excellent job of conveying the sense of camaraderie and respect that is shared by the pilots who fly these incredible machines. We see the profound bond that exists between Consalvi and Varley, as well as between the other members of their squadron, and it is clear that this sense of brotherhood and sisterhood is an integral part of what makes naval aviation such a special and rewarding profession.
Overall, Speed and Angels is a thrilling and inspiring film that will appeal to anyone with an interest in aviation or military history. Through its engaging and captivating storytelling, this film gives viewers a sense of the intense commitment, dedication, and skill required to become a naval aviator, as well as the sheer beauty and power of the F-14 Tomcat. Whether you are a longtime fan of aviation or simply looking for a well-made documentary that will keep you on the edge of your seat, Speed and Angels is a film that should not be missed.