Friday Flick Picker. (Not to be confused with "Pick n' Flicker")

Friday Flick Pick time! It's a good one - enjoy!

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Hello everybody, nice seeing you again!

This week, I am going to introduce a movie that has a little bit of everything. If you want action, you got it! If you like adventure, buckle up! Romance? - yeah, we got that too. This movie was released with very little fanfare, but I for one think it is worth the time to watch.

I bring to you...

FLY BOYS circa 2006

Rated PG-13 for some action violence and brief sexual situations

Directed by Tony Bill

Starring James Franco, Jean Reno, Jennifer Decker

Set in the1914's France, this World War I movie focuses on the best and worst that human nature has to offer. When faced with losing the family farm, Texas born Blaine Rawlings (Franco) chooses to escape trouble and depression by running to war torn France to learn to fly.

Initially just looking to escape reality from the home front, Rawlings discovers a hidden talent and a love of flying with the special squadron known as the LaFayette Escadrille. This squad was to be trained in the newest warfare technology - The art of the aerial attack! (America had not committed to being in the war yet.) In time, Rawlings discovers that even one man can make a difference!

On a training flight with a member of the squad, Rawlings and his pilot are forced to put their bi-plane down in a field. Both pilots being injured, they are taken to safety by the young ladies of a "gentleman's house". Rawlings wakes up in the care of Lucienne (Decker), a shy, beautiful young French woman. Over time, he learns that she is not one of "those" women and starts vying for her affection.

I found Jennifer Decker to be a perfect choice for this character. She was amazingly believable as this young waif and victim of the German bombings. I haven't seen her in anything before or since, but am very interested in her career.

The story continues with Rawling's commitment to the Escadrille and eventually, the squadron is ready for combat. The flight sequences were believable despite the use of computer graphics, and only occasionally seemed cartoonish. I found the story between the members of the squadron and their adversarial German counterparts to be fascinating and a distraction from any weakness in special effects.

Rawlings and his buddies face numerous challenges, shoot down many German Bi and Tri planes, and suffer losses of their own. What can I say, War is hell!

I didn't count rounds of ammunition being fired, but if you have surround sound, CRANK IT UP! I watched this movie for the first time the same night I watched the new Rambo movie. Lots of shooting that evening! The director was able to get his point across without a gratuitous amount of gore.

Using Marcy, my wife as my measuring stick, I would say that most women who read this blog would probably enjoy this movie!

James Franco was a strong pick as the main character. He did a good job acting the "Cowboy". Jean Reno (a typical French character actor) was great as the squadron mentor and commanding officer. Again, I am in love with Jennifer Decker!

If you don't already own this movie, I highly recommend you put it in your Netflix Queue!

I rate Fly Boys a solid 5 Schnauzers out of 7!

Until next time, plant your butt in a chair, stuff your mouth with popcorn and enjoy a good movie!