The way of the future|Dec. 17, 2004|United States, Germany|170 Min.|PG-13
Genre: Drama
Description: “The Aviator,” released in 2004, is a captivating tale of ambition, love, and obsession. The story begins in 1914 in Houston, where a young Howard Hughes is taught by his mother to spell “quarantine” while being warned about the cholera outbreak. Fast forward to 1928, Hughes embarks on directing his film “Hell’s Angels” and hires Noah Dietrich to manage his business empire. Inspired by “The Jazz Singer,” Hughes becomes fixated on realism and converts his film to sound. Despite its success, he remains unsatisfied and orders a recut after the premiere. His romance with actress Katharine Hepburn helps him cope with his obsessive-compulsive disorder.
In 1935, Hughes sets a speed record with the H-1 Racer, crash-landing in a beet field due to fuel exhaustion. Three years later, he circumnavigates the world in four days. He then acquires a majority stake in Transcontinental & Western Air (TWA), facing rivalry from Pan Am’s Juan Trippe, who pushes for exclusive international travel rights. Hepburn leaves Hughes for Spencer Tracy, and Hughes finds solace in relationships with Faith Domergue and Ava Gardner, though he still harbors feelings for Hepburn.
In the mid-1940s, Hughes undertakes military projects, including a spy aircraft and a troop transport unit for World War II. The film explores his relentless ambition, personal struggles, and the complexities of his relationships. “The Aviator” is a testament to Hughes’ pioneering spirit and his tireless pursuit of perfection.
Cast director: Martin Scorsese
Cast actor: Leonardo DiCaprio, Cate Blanchett, Kate Beckinsale, John C. Reilly, Alec Baldwin, Alan Alda, Ian Holm, Jude Law, Kelli Garner, Danny Huston
Original name: The Aviator