| The Pilot [a.k.a. Danger in the Skies] | |
|---|---|
1980 Theatrical Poster |
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| Directed by | Cliff Robertson |
| Written by | Robert P. Davis |
| Starring | Cliff Robertson Diane Baker |
| Release date(s) | 1980 |
| Country | USA |
| Language | English |
The Pilot is a 1980 film by director Cliff Robertson and is based on the novel of the same name by Robert P. Davis.
The main character, Mike Hagan, is a pilot in passenger service and a candidate for the honor of Best Pilot of the Year. There's only one problem -- Mike is an alcoholic. As the disease tightens its grip on the main character, he faces an increasingly tough battle to conceal his problem and maintain his personal and professional life. After an incident in which he jeopardizes the lives of his passengers and crew, Mike realizes he needs help to keep things from spinning out of control.
The film provides an interesting character study of an alcoholic working in a profession that carries great responsibility. Aviation buffs will enjoy the film because of its realistic depiction of commercial flying, and though the airliners used in the movie may be outdated (DC-8), the movie still captures the essence and intensity of an airline pilot's daily life.