Synopsis: Lei Yu and a group of elite aviators undergo rigorous training to be recognised as official test pilots. Led by the experienced Commander Zhang, they are tasked with testing the latest fighter jets. As they soar to new heights, the unexpected happens when the engine fails and catches fire, causing the aircraft to spiral out of control. Despite facing near-death situations repeatedly, they persevere and gather crucial data under extreme circumstances. However, with the deadline for delivery of the fighter jet quickly approaching, their challenges become increasingly difficult. Will they be able to triumph over adversity and successfully complete their mission? With breath-taking aerial sequences and high-stakes action, Born to Fly is an adrenaline fuelled ride that showcases the unwavering determination and bravery of test pilots. (128 Mins)

 

Views: Hailed as China's answer to Top Gun, and more-so it's recent sequel, Top Gun: Maverick, Born To Fly is an exciting and lengthy feature that should please any fan of the military genre and anyone who just enjoys a decent movie. The handsome singer Wang Yibo, from the television show The Untamed and spy-thriller Hidden Blade alongside Tony Leung, stars as Yu Lei – one of the newest recruits to join a team of elite pilots in the Chinese Air Force who are tasked with testing out new fighter jets. In between dealing with the dramas of their own lives, each of the cadets and their commander must push themselves and their hi-tec vehicles to the highest limits, challenging each other and the elements while risking their lives in order to protect the country!

 

Although this kind of movie isn't really my thing, I still found myself enjoying Born To Fly more than I expected. Although many will criticise its political agenda, which is hard to ignore given the current state of the world's affairs, Born To Fly is no less patriotic than any of the military themed movies from Tinsel-town. The opening 10 minutes alone offers a hugely impressive and exciting sky-high dog fight that would equal that of the closing battle from most other films in the same genre and really sets the tone for the audience in what to expect throughout its 2 hour running time. Packed with stunning visuals and hugely impressive CGI, I would say that anyone lucky enough to catch this on the big screen would definitely have had a much better time as it offers plenty of wow moments that rival that of the aforementioned Hollywood movies, backed by some strong sound design and cockpit drama that really pulls you in. Wang Yibo does a great job as the leading star of the movie, backed by the strength of prolific actor Hu Jun – recognisable for his roles in films such as Infernal Affairs 2, Assembly, Red Cliff 1 & 2, Firestorm, Shadow, The Battle At Lake Changjin 1 & 2, and many more. Jun plays commander Zhang, and impresses once again with his strong on-screen performance...

 

Seemingly the first film of writer/director Liu Xiaoshi, who does an amazing job for his debut, Born To Fly offers a great blend of pure adrenaline with some genuinely emotional moments placed throughout. I was surprised to hear that the film had initially been shelved upon completion, and with no real explanation as to why, but it's clear to see that the production has proven to be a massive hit with audiences around the world and may even encourage a sequel or two. I was also surprised to find that, over the end credits, we had the chance to hear some real recordings of final messages from Chinese test pilots who were about to meet their end – some of which were worked into the actual film, respectively. It definitely let the audience see the true dangers of being a test pilot and the risks involved; even with the unexpected ones, such as a flock of birds which really helped create a truly shocking moment in the movie that had me on the edge of my seat. One of the other main attractions for me was the gorgeous cinematography that was captured by Bai Yuxia, the very same DOP behind the underrated 2019 film, Pegasus, which was directed by Han Han who produced this epic. For the most of its running time, Bai delivers some incredible visuals that certainly leave an impression and help make Born To Fly a little more epic on many levels. Filled with handsome men, gripping action scenes, and just enough drama without going over the top, Born To Fly challenges the very best that Hollywood has to offer and is a genuinely well made and entertaining movie that's well worth seeing. Released on selected screens across the UK and Ireland, courtesy of Trinity Cineasia, Born To Fly will be getting its Blu-ray, DVD and digital release later this year.

 

Overall: Visually stunning, emotional, and packed with some impressive flight sequences, Born To Fly is another thrilling piece of Chinese cinema that entertains!