MovieChat Forums > Flat Top (1952) Discussion > Mixed Aircraft Types

Mixed Aircraft Types


A pretty decent war movie for a low-budget effort. My big complaint (and this is true of a lot of WW2 movies) is the mixing of aircraft types in the same action sequence. A scene starts out with a Corsair starting take-off and switches to another type (Douglas Dauntless or Grumman Hellcat, are 2 examples) as it leaves the deck, or switching from Corsairs to Hellcats in a formation shot, an attack shot or a landing accident. I suppose the producers and editors didn't figure it would make any difference to the average viewer, but it is my contention that individuals who are interested in these types of films will be a bit more knowledgable about these things. Did anyone else notice these inconsistencies? There were other minor glitches, but not enough to hurt the plot.

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Agreed.

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I guess the US Navy consultants either weren't involved in the editing or didn't serve on carriers so they didn't notice.

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There is only so much stock footage available I guess.

Got to overlook it as annoying as it is.

Anyone remember the comment that Zeros cannot roll to the right? From the footage that does not seem to be true. Anyone know for sure?

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I agree with the one guy who said just overlook it.

We've lost exact details...just like any history. I think we should appreciate the film for what it is...not for what it isn't. They won't make films like this anymore, and if a hellcat is in in it when a corsair should be...well okay fine...I'm very grateful for original footage even if it isn't 100% accurate. In fact it's fun finding where it's not- it shows your adeptness!...just don't take it so seriously. Be grateful for the opportunity.

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there was more than one flying squadron on most carriers and multiple missions, therefore different aircraft to accomplish those missions,ie; dive bombers, torpedo planes and fighters for air cover...as i recall, this film was a flashback... the problem being is that could not be possible on the same ship as the uss princeton was sunk in the leyte gulf...the korean war version was a different ship named the same

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