Amelia

Thank God for DVDs. Else this Diwali would have been a disaster of sorts. Firstly, the movie houses make way for the grand releases, both of which turned out to be duds to put it very mildly. What peeves you more is the fact that despite being duds, they are assured of screening for over 2 weeks. And that gave us a good opportunity to squeeze in a few movies that we have been wanting to watch for quite some time.

One of them being Mira Nair’s Amelia. The biopic, based on the life and times of the first female pilot in the world, whose life has been an inspiration for many a woman – and man – Amelia Earhart. Amelia (Hilary Swank) comes from Kansas where she grew up watching aircrafts in the early part of the century. A fascination that Nair, beautifully, yet briefly, brings to life with the titling.

And it was a matter of time, with the right encouragement that she finds herself in the office of a leading publisher of the 20s – George Putnam (Richard Gere). Putnam enlists Earhart’s services for a Trans Atlantic flight due to leave from New Foundland and find their way to St. Patrick’s country. Putnam intends to sensationalize the flight as the first one with a woman commander. A wonderful play on words – because Amelia is expected to do very little other than just stay on board.

But when the flight fails to take off, Amelia uses the opportunity to actually lead the expedition the next day. So what if the effort finds them reaching St. James’ country instead. Amelia finds herself in the record books for being the first woman to complete a Trans Atlantic flight. The first of many records that she would set. And fall short eventually of only her first attempt to circumnavigate the globe. A record that – most people in aviation would agree – should have been rightfully hers.

Nair, through the little under 2 hours of the movie, uncovers various facets of Earhart’s life. Her love affair with Putnam. Her affection for Gene Vidal (Ewan McGregor) and his son Gore. Her pioneering effort with respect to aviation in general and the formation of the 99ers, the first flying club for ladies in the US. Her pure love for flying without any desperation to be called the best – because she firmly knew that she was.

A good watch overall. Swank has as always given a 100%. Gere as always is understated and yet charming. Everyone else has very little to do. I thought this was as good an attempt that Mira Nair has ever made. You can decide for yourself. 7 on 10.

Watch the trailer at http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi2446393881/