Born to Fly: A Critical Analysis of China's Propagandistic Flyboy Blockbuster
"Born to Fly" takes flight as the latest addition to China's catalogue of propagandistic action films, backed by the government and filled with patriotic fervor. However, this film lacks the humor and entertainment value of its American counterparts from the 80s and 90s. Instead, it serves as a foreign policy document disguised as a flyboy blockbuster, emphasizing political pep talks and jingoism over a substantial plot.
Plot and Themes
The film revolves around China's next-generation fighter pilots, with the central focus on promising pilot Lei Yu, played by Wang Yibo. Lei is chosen by veteran pilot Zhang Ting, portrayed by Hu Jun, to join an elite unit tasked with collecting "limit data" from new stealth planes at high altitude. Unfortunately, the plot fails to offer much depth beyond a brief rivalry with Deng Fang (Yu Yosh). The real drama lies outside the film, as it constantly references foreign powers attempting to contain China and encroach on its waters. This backdrop sets the stage for continuous political pep talks about China's strategic superiority and its journey to overcome postwar inferiority.
Jingoism and Lack of Fun
While films like "Top Gun" and the "Rambo" sequels also embraced jingoism, they managed to balance it with a sense of fun. However, "Born to Fly" falls short in this aspect. Its attempts at conveying attitude come across as timid and formulaic. For instance, instructors who make mistakes are subjected to wearing a small top-knot, and the recruits' idea of letting loose is simply a dumplings night at Zhang's place. The film fails to capture the spirit of enjoyment that characterized its American predecessors.
Misrepresentation of Power Dynamics
One recurring theme in patriotic action movies is the disingenuous portrayal of the protagonist superpower as the underdog. "Born to Fly" follows this pattern, as do other Chinese blockbusters like the "Wolf Warrior" franchise, "Wandering Earth," and "Battle at Lake Changjin." The film attempts to depict China as a nation overcoming challenges and striving to develop cutting-edge technology for its servicemen. Director Liu Xiaoshi incorporates tense flying sequences to highlight the determination of Lei and his instructors. However, these efforts ultimately fail to ignite true excitement on screen. Consequently, "Born to Fly" feels less like a cinematic experience and more like a flying foreign policy document.
Conclusion
"Born to Fly" may attract audiences with its promise of flyboy action, but it ultimately falls short of delivering a memorable and entertaining film experience. Instead, it serves as a vehicle for political messaging and patriotic propaganda, lacking the humor and sense of fun found in its American counterparts. While it showcases China's technological advancements and emphasizes the country's journey to reclaim its strategic superiority, the film fails to ignite genuine excitement or provide a compelling storyline. "Born to Fly" becomes more of a political statement than a captivating cinematic adventure.
"Born to Fly" is currently available in Australian cinemas and will be released in UK cinemas on May 5th.
Born to Fly (2023) - info
- Release date: April 28, 2023
- Genre: Action, Drama
- Director: Liu Xiaoshi
- Writer: Guan GuiXi, aoshi Liu
- Stars: Yibo Wang, Jun Hu, Yosh Yu