Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)I saw Amelia in a movie theater because I'm interested in aviation and wanted to see the Lockheed Electra in flight on a big screen.
This is not a terrible movie but it does suffer greatly from being a biopic and the producers' attempt to fit in as much of Amelia Earhart's life before she disappeared in 1937. I think they could have done a better job of portraying her and the era if they had concentrated more on her last flight. As it is, we are introduced to quite a few characters who never appear again and others, like Gene Vidal, who don't contribute much to the movie other than to make Earhart's husband jealous. Fred Noonan's portrayal is unflattering and with no historical reason.
Hillary Swank is plucky as the title character and she does a fine job of capturing Earhart's shyness before the camera but studied mannerisms are a poor substitute for acting. Richard Gere does well as G.P. Putnam. As Gere grows older he shows more range of emotion in his portrayals and I feel he adds quite a bit to the movie though his role is limited to second [and maybe third] banana to Swank. Ewan McGregor adds a bit of dash as Gene Vidal and a bit too much screen time is occupied by Vidal's young son, Gore. I liked Christopher Eccleston's Fred Noonan because the actor chose to portray Earhart's navigator as a gruff, but competent aviator - as befits Noonan's stature as one of the pioneers of aerial navigation. However, as I mentioned, the story chose to also depict certain characteristics of Noonan in the short time running up to the Electra's disappearence in a manner with no historical or factual proof. I suppose this is what happens when one lacks family or fan clubs 70+ years after one's disappearance and death.
All in all, despite any quibbles I may have, I feel that Amelia is worthy of viewing. The cinematography is excellent, the period costumes are gorgeous, and the story is inspiring. Those interested in following the continuing saga of the search for Earhart and Noonan's Lockheed Electra will be interested in The Institute for Aviation History [...].
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Two-time Academy Award® Winner Hilary Swank delivers an unforgettable performance as Amelia Earhart, the legendary American aviatrix who boldly flew into the annals of history. Richard Gere co-stars as her charismatic business partner and adoring husband George Putnam. Bound by ambition and love, their enduring marriage could not be broken by Amelia's determination to fly -- nor her passionate affair with Gene Vidal (Ewan McGregor). Equal parts gripping drama, stirring romance and epic adventure, Amelia will take your breath away and send your spirit soaring!
Audio: English: 5.1 Dolby Digital
Language: Dubbed: English / Subtitled: English, French & Spanish
Theatrical Aspect Ratio: Widescreen: 2.35:1
