Movie Title: Blue Thunder
Genre: Action, Crime, Thriller
Writer: Dan O'Bannon and Don Jakoby
Starring: Roy Scheider, Warren Oates, Candy Clark, Daniel Stern, Malcolm McDowell, Paul Roebling, David Sheiner, Joe Santos, Ed Bernard, Jason Bernard
Review: Los Angeles Police Officer Frank Murphy (Roy Scheider) has been selected to test pilot an experimental police helicopter known as "Blue Thunder". Its advanced technology and weaponry make it the deadliest vehicle ever made. When Murphy discovers its true purpose he takes to the skies to keep this flying arsenal from falling into the wrong hands. I grew up on Blue Thunder and still enjoy the suspense, action sequences, but most of all, I enjoy Roy Scheider piloting the most awesome chopper of all-time! The "Blue Thunder" helicopter is so cool. It's look and capabilities at the time seemed a little far fetched, but it was definitely a window into the future of air defense and espionage.
The '80s were a great time for movies. It seems like studios were willing to take a chance on riskier projects back then. Blue Thunder was a huge risk in both concept and execution. Some of the stunt work, flying sequences, and action would be deemed too dangerous by today's standards. In interviews, Director John Badham would often marvel at the fact that the production was able to do so many crazy stunts in highly populated areas of Los Angeles.
John A. Alonzo's cinematography is breathtaking and the music of Arthur B. Rubinstein gives the movie a wonderfully exciting energy. Roy Scheider proves once again that he is a tremendous acting talent. He has always had a great screen presence and Blue Thunder gives him another memorable character to play. Warren Oates (in his final role), Candy Clark, Daniel Stern, and Malcolm McDowell are all fantastic. Blue Thunder is not to be missed. "Catch ya later!"
Fun Fact: Malcolm McDowell actually hated flying and no one, not even his wife, could persuade him to overcome his phobia. During the final battle scene McDowell's grimaces were caught on film for all to see, clearly displaying his discomfort at being in the air.