Currently available for streaming on Disney Plus, The Rocketeer (1991) was one of Disney’s first superhero movies based on comics. Fun fact: director Joe Johnston would later go on to direct another superhero period film, Captain America: The First Avenger.
Set in 1938, The Rocketeer crafts an origin story of the life of a young pilot, Cliff Secord, (Billy Campbell) and how he ultimately saves the nation – as superheroes do, of course – with a jet pack. The jet pack was not designed by Cliff, but stashed in the cockpit of his rickety plane by a thief. Initially, Cliff explores the jet pack’s capabilities and intends to use it as part of an act to make some extra money; instead, Cliff ends up using it to save a friend from a near-accident, and becomes famous as “the Rocketeer.”
Similarly to the first Captain America installment, The Rocketeer involves Nazi antagonists and a simple, charming love story – although in this case, the ending is neatly resolved, allowing for an appropriate stand-alone film.
The film features excellent visuals, a well-written (if not entirely original) plot, and a sincere cast. Billy Campbell slipped into his role with ease; Jennifer Connelly was convincing as Cliff’s beautiful and whip-smart girlfriend; Timothy Dalton was suave and dashing as a Nazi spy turned Hollywood actor.
Overall, the film may be worth adding to your watchlist if you’re on the lookout for a feel-good film with nostalgic value.
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