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User Reviews for: Devotion

decatur555
7/10  2 months ago
Devotion is a film that, at first glance, seems to follow the path of classic war biopics, focusing its narrative on real events that took place during the Korean War. Directed by J.D. Dillard, the movie strives to tell the story of Jesse Brown, the first African-American naval aviator, and his relationship with his fellow pilot Tom Hudner. However, what could have been a broader exploration of squadron dynamics is reduced to an almost exclusive focus on the bond between these two protagonists.

Jonathan Majors, in the role of Jesse Brown, shines brightly. His performance is both restrained and powerful, managing to convey the strength and vulnerabilities of a man who made history in a context of racial discrimination. Glen Powell, on the other hand, portrays Tom Hudner convincingly, although his character lacks the necessary development to fully realize the emotional depth of their relationship. The chemistry between them is palpable, but one can't help but feel that the film could have made better use of the supporting characters and group interactions.

One of Devotion's strengths is its ability to capture the loneliness and emotional weight that Brown carried with him. The scenes where the pilot confronts his internal demons are some of the most powerful moments in the film, but the script seems intent on constantly reminding us of his heroism, instead of letting his actions speak for themselves. This excess of didacticism detracts from a story that could have been more subtle and moving.

The film's technical aspects are solid. Erik Messerschmidt's cinematography stands out for its clarity and beauty, especially in the aerial sequences, which manage to convey both the majesty and danger of combat. The score by Chanda Dancy complements the film's emotional beats well, though it can occasionally feel a bit overbearing.

The main criticism that can be leveled at Devotion is its limited narrative scope. The Korean War and the aerial missions offered a perfect opportunity to create a broader and more complex drama, exploring the stories and motivations of all the squadron's pilots. Instead, the film remains on the surface, focusing almost exclusively on the relationship between Brown and Hudner, leaving the impression that there was greater potential that went untapped.

In conclusion, Devotion is a film that moves in many moments thanks to its cast's performances and its polished technical execution, but it loses some impact by not daring to go beyond its conventional formula. Despite its limitations, it is a worthy and sincere tribute to a forgotten hero and a testament to how human connections can endure beyond time and tragedy.
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