Nobody messes with the president. And for ford this time around it means saving airforce one from a hijacking. Gary oldman plays a great villian along with great performances by glenn close and the rest of the cast. Really great action and some intense scenes make this a solid action thriller.
423 Reviews
Fun to watch, if you do not make a big deal out of technical accuracy.
NickMeron19 June 2005
Very entertaining action, once you get past the "believability" problems, i.e., terrorists getting on the plane at all, the plane having an on-board armory, Secret Service agents' inability to shoot accurately, etc.
Acting is good enough that you care about the characters.
As others have noted, the CGI aerial sequences sometimes have the aircraft moving in unnatural or impossible ways, and this is visually jarring. (After the touch-and-go, Air Force One turns a 180 almost like a helicopter) I gave it a 7 out of 10 - not brilliant, but makes for an entertaining evening.
Acting is good enough that you care about the characters.
As others have noted, the CGI aerial sequences sometimes have the aircraft moving in unnatural or impossible ways, and this is visually jarring. (After the touch-and-go, Air Force One turns a 180 almost like a helicopter) I gave it a 7 out of 10 - not brilliant, but makes for an entertaining evening.
It is what it is......fun
Alvsy0077 March 2005
Nonstop action, thrilling suspense, dark humor, and a brilliant concept, this flag waving over the top action adventure was a good two hours in 1997.
The story: Enroute back to the States from Russia, Russian Nationals hijack the President's plane and hold him and his family (as well as most of his staff) hostage aboard Air Force One in order to release a Rouge General captured earlier.
Harrison Ford from his first minute to his last looks comfortable in his Presidential role. That's to say, Ford appears, acts and just plain feels like he should be President. (Come one who saw this movie and wanted him to run). Gary Oldman's performance as the main villain (Ivan) should be up there with the likes of Alan Rickman's Hans from Die Hard and John Malkovich's Leary-Booth-Carney from In the Line of Fire (coincidentally directed by Wolfgang Peterson as well). Glenn Close pulls of the Vice President role with smirks and spunk.
Stars aside I think the supporting cast should get an equal if not harder pat on the back. These guys and girls . really made the movie. They're the ones that brought the chuckles and caused gasps. Wendy Crewson (The Good Son) nailed her role with more grace than a first lady has actually shown in the last recallable years. Paul Guilfoyle ("CSI", The Negotiator), was the kind gentle, "best buddy", chief-of-staff, who brought a small smile to your face every time he is on-screen. Xander Berkeley ("24", Terminator 2), plays the chilling secret service agent Gibbs. The lovable William H. Macy plays the good-mannered Air Force Officer who puts himself in harm's way for the President more time than the Secret Service agents do. He just doesn't get enough screen time toward the beginning. And Dean Stockwell will have you cussing under your breath as the power-hungry Secretary of Defense. And it seems that Wolfgang Peterson watched every great Action/Military movie of the past 3 years and hired all those "briefing room generals". For this I applaud him. As for the terrorist, they rival those of Die hard. Cold, stone-faced, funny, smooth, and just plain hateable, they did their job.
The bulk of the movie takes place aboard the Air Force One no kidding eh?). And boy do you believe it. The production designer (Williams Sandell) obviously paid attention to detail, mimicking the real Presidential Aircraft. Small, claustrophobic and believable.
Andrew W. Marlowe's script gets it job done as well. Nothing award winning. It's everything you would expect given the story it has to tell. Couple times it will make you cringe, but again, look what it needs to accomplish.
The late Jerry Goldsmith's score for this movie is a hands down classic. Only having two weeks to score the film after Peterson rejected Randy Newman's work, Goldsmith with the help of Joel Mcneely composed one of the most bombastic, riveting, emotional, suspenseful, and patriotic scores I've heard come out of the film world. It works perfectly with the movie.
A few times your mind is going to be stretch you may have to resort to the "It's just a movie" mindset. Overall its fun. Not a bad way to spend 2 hours. Harrison Ford for President.
The story: Enroute back to the States from Russia, Russian Nationals hijack the President's plane and hold him and his family (as well as most of his staff) hostage aboard Air Force One in order to release a Rouge General captured earlier.
Harrison Ford from his first minute to his last looks comfortable in his Presidential role. That's to say, Ford appears, acts and just plain feels like he should be President. (Come one who saw this movie and wanted him to run). Gary Oldman's performance as the main villain (Ivan) should be up there with the likes of Alan Rickman's Hans from Die Hard and John Malkovich's Leary-Booth-Carney from In the Line of Fire (coincidentally directed by Wolfgang Peterson as well). Glenn Close pulls of the Vice President role with smirks and spunk.
Stars aside I think the supporting cast should get an equal if not harder pat on the back. These guys and girls . really made the movie. They're the ones that brought the chuckles and caused gasps. Wendy Crewson (The Good Son) nailed her role with more grace than a first lady has actually shown in the last recallable years. Paul Guilfoyle ("CSI", The Negotiator), was the kind gentle, "best buddy", chief-of-staff, who brought a small smile to your face every time he is on-screen. Xander Berkeley ("24", Terminator 2), plays the chilling secret service agent Gibbs. The lovable William H. Macy plays the good-mannered Air Force Officer who puts himself in harm's way for the President more time than the Secret Service agents do. He just doesn't get enough screen time toward the beginning. And Dean Stockwell will have you cussing under your breath as the power-hungry Secretary of Defense. And it seems that Wolfgang Peterson watched every great Action/Military movie of the past 3 years and hired all those "briefing room generals". For this I applaud him. As for the terrorist, they rival those of Die hard. Cold, stone-faced, funny, smooth, and just plain hateable, they did their job.
The bulk of the movie takes place aboard the Air Force One no kidding eh?). And boy do you believe it. The production designer (Williams Sandell) obviously paid attention to detail, mimicking the real Presidential Aircraft. Small, claustrophobic and believable.
Andrew W. Marlowe's script gets it job done as well. Nothing award winning. It's everything you would expect given the story it has to tell. Couple times it will make you cringe, but again, look what it needs to accomplish.
The late Jerry Goldsmith's score for this movie is a hands down classic. Only having two weeks to score the film after Peterson rejected Randy Newman's work, Goldsmith with the help of Joel Mcneely composed one of the most bombastic, riveting, emotional, suspenseful, and patriotic scores I've heard come out of the film world. It works perfectly with the movie.
A few times your mind is going to be stretch you may have to resort to the "It's just a movie" mindset. Overall its fun. Not a bad way to spend 2 hours. Harrison Ford for President.
Harrison Ford vs. Gary Oldman
cricketbat13 January 2021
There are two reasons that Air Force One succeeds: Harrison Ford and Gary Oldman. Their performances alone keep this political action flick in the air. However, the decades haven't been kind to the visual effects-the exterior flying scenes look really cheesy now. Also, this film feels excessively violent. Nevertheless, I'd still vote to watch it again one day.
A good action-adventure film with great special effects
Nazi_Fighter_David11 May 2008
Marshall is the kind of President referred to a change in the U.S. foreign policy
He took a great risk when he stated that America will no longer tolerate any terrorist government
His policy is soon put in practice when he boards his plane on his way home
Once is in the sky, 'Air Force One' is hijacked and currently controlled by Russian radicals who ask for the release of their leader or they'll execute a prisoner every half hour
Harrison Ford is the action hero making his way through the plane taking out few terrorists, managing to free several hostages, trying to get to his wife and daughter who are prisoners on board
Gary Oldman almost steals the show as the head terrorist Ivan Korshunov who takes over the president's plane
Beautifully directed by Wolfgang Petersen who controls the action with his usual extreme intelligence, building the challenge with captivating, tense sequences from every compartment of the huge aircraft to the White House contingent in Washington
Once is in the sky, 'Air Force One' is hijacked and currently controlled by Russian radicals who ask for the release of their leader or they'll execute a prisoner every half hour
Harrison Ford is the action hero making his way through the plane taking out few terrorists, managing to free several hostages, trying to get to his wife and daughter who are prisoners on board
Gary Oldman almost steals the show as the head terrorist Ivan Korshunov who takes over the president's plane
Beautifully directed by Wolfgang Petersen who controls the action with his usual extreme intelligence, building the challenge with captivating, tense sequences from every compartment of the huge aircraft to the White House contingent in Washington
Good Solid Fun
mjw23054 February 2006
An Action movie is made to entertain, and should always be taken at face value. With this in mind Air Force One hits the mark, despite some minor flaws it still delivers tension, drama and action in abundance.
The cast is strong and full of believable characters, the story is compelling and the traditional dose of sentiment is added sparingly and to good effect. Harrison Ford and Gary Oldman both put in solid performances and they are well supported by the likes of Glenn Close and Wendy Crewson.
Overall Air Force One is an safe bet for the average movie fan and should entertain most, without ever really excelling.
7/10
The cast is strong and full of believable characters, the story is compelling and the traditional dose of sentiment is added sparingly and to good effect. Harrison Ford and Gary Oldman both put in solid performances and they are well supported by the likes of Glenn Close and Wendy Crewson.
Overall Air Force One is an safe bet for the average movie fan and should entertain most, without ever really excelling.
7/10
Will the real president please stand up?
departed0714 May 2008
I know what you're thinking, "What the hell is he saying?" It's true that we've had so many biographies about presidents in which some of the movies told about historic incidents, why not have a fictional president that could kick ass and take names? Harrison Ford is the man for the job.
"Air Force One" is a thriller that involves Russian terrorist Ivan Korshunov (Gary Oldman) and his gang of criminals hijacking the first plane along with the president's wife and child and his staff. Meanwhile, President James Marshall (Harrison Ford) is hiding after an attack on the ship where he must reunite with his family before they end up victims to Ivan's plan if the president doesn't release a Russian prisoner who happens to be a general and a terrorist.
The film itself is a nail bitter thriller with an all star cast as Ford and Oldman play their usual good guy/villain roles with Glenn Close, Wendy Crewson, Xander Berkerly and William H. Macy in supporting roles. If there was such thing where Harrison Ford had a nomination for president, I would vote.
"Air Force One" is a thriller that involves Russian terrorist Ivan Korshunov (Gary Oldman) and his gang of criminals hijacking the first plane along with the president's wife and child and his staff. Meanwhile, President James Marshall (Harrison Ford) is hiding after an attack on the ship where he must reunite with his family before they end up victims to Ivan's plan if the president doesn't release a Russian prisoner who happens to be a general and a terrorist.
The film itself is a nail bitter thriller with an all star cast as Ford and Oldman play their usual good guy/villain roles with Glenn Close, Wendy Crewson, Xander Berkerly and William H. Macy in supporting roles. If there was such thing where Harrison Ford had a nomination for president, I would vote.
Great adventure
bat-53 August 1999
Air Force One is one great ride. What makes it work so well is the conviction that Harrison Ford and Gary Oldman bring to their roles. You can see in each actor's eyes that they stand behind what they believe in. Gary Oldman makes a perfect villian and a very complex one at that. He is not just an average, run of the mill madman. He has a family, he is someone's son and those facts make him that much more real. Harrison Ford is great as the president. He's strong, quick witted, and will do anything he can to save his family and staff from the hijackers. A good ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat for two hours, just as long as you don't ask any questions.
A pretty decent Harrison Ford action vehicle
sme_no_densetsu24 February 2017
For a movie that recycles most of its ingredients from past action movies (especially "Die Hard"), "Air Force One" still manages to stand out relatively well in its own right. This is partially due to the high concept premise that's chock full of potential.
In the movie, a group of terrorists hijack Air Force One, which is the official call sign of the aircraft carrying the President of the United States of America. Luckily, the President just happens to be a tough-as-nails Medal of Honor recipient (rather than, say, a blowhard with a combover). Obviously, these terrorists are about to experience some major turbulence.
Starring as the President is Harrison Ford. There aren't too many actors that could pull off this role but Ford is one of them. His pedigree as an action hero is unquestionable but he's also convincing as a stalwart leader and a loving husband & father. His worthy adversary is played by the always captivating Gary Oldman, who contributes a deliciously villainous performance. The supporting cast is headed by the formidable Glenn Close as the Vice President and is otherwise studded with the likes of Dean Stockwell, William H. Macy & Philip Baker Hall.
As I alluded to above, the story borrows heavily from other (better) action movies, particularly "Die Hard". In fact, there are so many parallels that you could say that this movie is basically "Die Hard" on a plane, with the President in place of John McClane. That being said, the "Die Hard" template translates very well to the setting of "Air Force One". Unfortunately, in the later stages the action gets somewhat ludicrous, possibly in an attempt to distinguish the movie from other similar excursions.
The sometimes over-the-top action isn't the only problem with the narrative, though. The catalyst for the story is a betrayal by one of the American Secret Service agents. However, director Wolfgang Peterson felt that it was unnecessary to provide a glimpse into this character's motivation, so he ended up leaving an explanatory scene on the cutting room floor. This is particularly baffling since the character figures into the action fairly significantly but he basically remains a mystery.
Generally, though, from a directorial standpoint, Wolfgang Peterson did a fine job. Before eventually going overboard, the movie is quite suspenseful. Unfortunately, another drawback of the excesses in the action department is that the special effects aren't quite convincing. At least the Jerry Goldsmith score provides a rousing backdrop even when the story goes off the rails.
Ultimately, "Air Force One" is a decent action movie but one that loses its way in the late stages. Apart from the aforementioned misguided action sequences, the final showdown with the terrorists also leaves something to be desired. Even so, the movie's still worth watching since Ford & Oldman going head to head makes for compelling viewing for a large chunk of the movie's runtime.
In the movie, a group of terrorists hijack Air Force One, which is the official call sign of the aircraft carrying the President of the United States of America. Luckily, the President just happens to be a tough-as-nails Medal of Honor recipient (rather than, say, a blowhard with a combover). Obviously, these terrorists are about to experience some major turbulence.
Starring as the President is Harrison Ford. There aren't too many actors that could pull off this role but Ford is one of them. His pedigree as an action hero is unquestionable but he's also convincing as a stalwart leader and a loving husband & father. His worthy adversary is played by the always captivating Gary Oldman, who contributes a deliciously villainous performance. The supporting cast is headed by the formidable Glenn Close as the Vice President and is otherwise studded with the likes of Dean Stockwell, William H. Macy & Philip Baker Hall.
As I alluded to above, the story borrows heavily from other (better) action movies, particularly "Die Hard". In fact, there are so many parallels that you could say that this movie is basically "Die Hard" on a plane, with the President in place of John McClane. That being said, the "Die Hard" template translates very well to the setting of "Air Force One". Unfortunately, in the later stages the action gets somewhat ludicrous, possibly in an attempt to distinguish the movie from other similar excursions.
The sometimes over-the-top action isn't the only problem with the narrative, though. The catalyst for the story is a betrayal by one of the American Secret Service agents. However, director Wolfgang Peterson felt that it was unnecessary to provide a glimpse into this character's motivation, so he ended up leaving an explanatory scene on the cutting room floor. This is particularly baffling since the character figures into the action fairly significantly but he basically remains a mystery.
Generally, though, from a directorial standpoint, Wolfgang Peterson did a fine job. Before eventually going overboard, the movie is quite suspenseful. Unfortunately, another drawback of the excesses in the action department is that the special effects aren't quite convincing. At least the Jerry Goldsmith score provides a rousing backdrop even when the story goes off the rails.
Ultimately, "Air Force One" is a decent action movie but one that loses its way in the late stages. Apart from the aforementioned misguided action sequences, the final showdown with the terrorists also leaves something to be desired. Even so, the movie's still worth watching since Ford & Oldman going head to head makes for compelling viewing for a large chunk of the movie's runtime.
The way America wishes they were
bob the moo16 July 2002
During a flight, Air Force One is taken over by terrorists. The security forces rush the president to the escape pod but he stays to help his family. However with the terrorists making great demands and starting to kill hostages on the plane the President has to make contact with the ground but also take on the terrorists.
It's not an original idea Die Hard on a plane. But hang on we've done Die Hard on a plane at least a few times in Passenger 57 and Executive Decision so how can we do it again? By putting it on air force one of course. So the President becomes John McClane and Gary Oldman is the usual Brit playing Euro-trash terrorist. The difference between this and Die Hard is that here the action is a lot more stilted and underplayed which is a surprise for an action movie. However it does manage to have a good tension so it's still good.
It adds interest by having the action in the ground along with the political fighting in the White House over control of the situation. It isn't an earth shattering script but it is good enough to get you carried away easily. The only downside is that you can nearly always see where the formula is going at any one time.
The cast is good and is deep. Ford has the age to play a President but the action status to give him that fighting edge. Oldman is no stranger to hamming up his bad guys and doing iffy accents and here turns in a so-so performance as a cartoon terrorist. The support cast is good even if they have little to do. Glenn Close, Dean Stcokwell et al don't have much to do but talk loud but do it well. Macy, Berkeley, Prochnow and other big names add weight but have few lines.
Overall this is a big Hollywood blockbuster that no doubt helped America feel good about itself. It sticks close to the formula but the action is slick and quite tense and makes for an enjoyable, if unoriginal, 2 hours.
It's not an original idea Die Hard on a plane. But hang on we've done Die Hard on a plane at least a few times in Passenger 57 and Executive Decision so how can we do it again? By putting it on air force one of course. So the President becomes John McClane and Gary Oldman is the usual Brit playing Euro-trash terrorist. The difference between this and Die Hard is that here the action is a lot more stilted and underplayed which is a surprise for an action movie. However it does manage to have a good tension so it's still good.
It adds interest by having the action in the ground along with the political fighting in the White House over control of the situation. It isn't an earth shattering script but it is good enough to get you carried away easily. The only downside is that you can nearly always see where the formula is going at any one time.
The cast is good and is deep. Ford has the age to play a President but the action status to give him that fighting edge. Oldman is no stranger to hamming up his bad guys and doing iffy accents and here turns in a so-so performance as a cartoon terrorist. The support cast is good even if they have little to do. Glenn Close, Dean Stcokwell et al don't have much to do but talk loud but do it well. Macy, Berkeley, Prochnow and other big names add weight but have few lines.
Overall this is a big Hollywood blockbuster that no doubt helped America feel good about itself. It sticks close to the formula but the action is slick and quite tense and makes for an enjoyable, if unoriginal, 2 hours.
When Harrison Ford is President, All Hell Breaks Loose
gavin694216 October 2006
Harrison Ford plays a president who refuses to negotiate with terrorists. But after one terrorist (Gary Oldman) hijacks the Air Force One and the president's wife and daughter, maybe he will have to rethink his position.
Allegedly, Kevin Costner was supposed to be playing the president. Boy am I glad he was too busy making "The Postman" for this movie. Not only did he make a great Postman, but he would have made a horrible president. When you want drama, you call Costner. When you want action, you call Bruce Willis. When you want the perfect blend of drama and action, you call Harrison Ford (think "The Fugitive", for example... don't think "Star Wars").
Ford is great as a diplomat, but equally as good with a gun and in a fight. But the real star of this is Gary Oldman, who plays an evil and soulless terrorist determined to get his old general freed from prison. Oldman plays it like he means it, killing mercilessly while still appearing cold and calculated rather than insane. The writer even had the decency to have Oldman deliver lines condemning the president for bombing villages while being against terror.
Glenn Close and Dean Stockwell made great supporting stars, and even William H. Macy seemed a little less flamboyant than usual in his role as a military man.
This film is especially interesting in the context of our current president, George W. Bush. Bush has also gone on record many times for not negotiating with terrorists and takes a hardline approach similar to Harrison Ford. What would Bush do if terrorists hijacked his plane or kidnapped his family? Even giving me that visual image made this film worth the viewing.
Allegedly, Kevin Costner was supposed to be playing the president. Boy am I glad he was too busy making "The Postman" for this movie. Not only did he make a great Postman, but he would have made a horrible president. When you want drama, you call Costner. When you want action, you call Bruce Willis. When you want the perfect blend of drama and action, you call Harrison Ford (think "The Fugitive", for example... don't think "Star Wars").
Ford is great as a diplomat, but equally as good with a gun and in a fight. But the real star of this is Gary Oldman, who plays an evil and soulless terrorist determined to get his old general freed from prison. Oldman plays it like he means it, killing mercilessly while still appearing cold and calculated rather than insane. The writer even had the decency to have Oldman deliver lines condemning the president for bombing villages while being against terror.
Glenn Close and Dean Stockwell made great supporting stars, and even William H. Macy seemed a little less flamboyant than usual in his role as a military man.
This film is especially interesting in the context of our current president, George W. Bush. Bush has also gone on record many times for not negotiating with terrorists and takes a hardline approach similar to Harrison Ford. What would Bush do if terrorists hijacked his plane or kidnapped his family? Even giving me that visual image made this film worth the viewing.
An enjoyable action flick
Blade_Le_Flambeur12 February 2004
Harrison Ford, Gary Oldman, and Glenn Close are the main stars in director Wolfgang Petersen's action thriller 'Air Force One', a film about the scenario of the famous presidential jet being taken over by a group of terrorists. The terrorists, led by Ivan Korshunov (Oldman) want one thing, the release of one of their comrades named General Redek. However, little do they know the President is a very intelligent and lethal man, and the film becomes a cat and mouse game onboard the air liner between the terrorists and the president. The suspense works out well, there are some good moments of surprise and plenty of good action sequences. The film keeps its momentum and pace going, despite some lame moments through out (e.g. the 'parachuting' scene). Harrison Ford is enjoyable in the role of the tough- as- nails president, but it's not particularly anything new for the actor. Gary Oldman is spectacular as the cold blooded terrorist, he is very commanding and daunting in the role. Close also her role well, making the character live, also worth nothing is William H. Macy as a major on board the flight. The script has some nice lines to it, and some strongly written scenes of action, though there are still notable clichés. Petersen's direction is almost furious in style, he tries his hardest to not let the film fall apart, and in some way he succeeds. All in all, 'Air Force One' is worth watching, it's not necessarily one of the top action films of all time, but it has plenty of moments and is definitely entertaining. Oldman is also a very nice treat. 8/10
High Tension, Action, Heroism & PC
ccthemovieman-12 December 2005
A very clichéd but interesting film with a two-fisted President of the United States (Harrison Ford) literally taking on terrorism himself on board his jet, Air Force One. Believable? Of course not, but it's an story that hooks you in and keeps you involved all the way. It could have been trimmed down, to be sure, but the better-than-average action scenes help make up for that. While not blatant, the film did have it's typical Hollywood Liberal slant with political correctness abounding....so be aware of that. It borders on reverse sexism and racism and there is a fair share of profanity in here if you are concerned about that.
The sound on the DVD is tremendous with some excellent rear speaker action. It would be great demo model for anyone's surround sound system. It adds measurably to the enjoyment of the film. If you like action and a lot of tension, this film has it. It's one of those movies that wears you out by the end of it!
The sound on the DVD is tremendous with some excellent rear speaker action. It would be great demo model for anyone's surround sound system. It adds measurably to the enjoyment of the film. If you like action and a lot of tension, this film has it. It's one of those movies that wears you out by the end of it!
Good acting
mm-399 June 2001
Ford and Oldman have strong performances, and the script is incredible. Unlike most action movies this film is fresh, and the Russian villains act as believable terrorists. Too bad Ford is not the US President, I would vote for him any day. The director, who did Das Boat, directs this film mechanically, and it is a pleasure to watch the mechanics of this film unravel.
Very nice action flick!
MovieAddict201619 August 2002
Although it is very unrealistic, AIR FORCE ONE is just pure, 100% fun at the movies. Anyone who takes this serious has a problem. It's not meant to be, it's just supposed to be an entertaining, fun, action packed thrill ride. Action haters beware! The acting was great-as usual with any Harrison Ford film- the directing was good, and it's like I said before, just good plain fun! So take my advice, see Air Force One, and don't take it too seriously. Just have fun watching it! 3.5/5 stars!
JOHN ULMER
JOHN ULMER
Tremendous ! Excellent Direction
djfdmpwr20 February 2022
I don't care what anybody else said this was a tremendous movie. I've seen it probably four different times each time I started it I couldn't stop watching it. When compared to movies in this day and age it far exceeds what we're seeing in these faky-techno fictional times now. Tremendous directing & even acting work for that matter.
One of my favorites
Luigi Di Pilla21 January 2007
I find too underrated AIR FORCE ONE on this site. Here I got all in one: breathtaking, gripping, nail-biting, edge-of-your-seat entertainment and some good jokes from Harrison Ford. He was very cool and also Gary Oldman delivered perhaps one of his best performances in his career. What I liked the most was the cat and mouse play on the president's air plane. Then also the special effects were not bad and the soundtrack was well synchronized to each scene. Last but not least I thank very much the director Wolfgang Petersen for this great work. Don't miss it. If you liked this one you should watch also UNITED 93. 7,5/10.
Cheesy and obvious, but it's working.
TaylorYee9416 February 2022
I cannot even understand myself, giving eight stars for this movie, 'Air Force One'. With Harrison Ford, it feels like Indiana Jones on the plane. Everything seems to work perfectly for hero's side with perfect timing. A president always makes morally right choices, and it sounds true that he tries to act God. A hero in this movie is such a flat character, screaming 'justice should be done' from the start to the end. On top of all, candlelight vigil scene really made me laugh. This movie stays on borderline of becoming so obvious and shabby. However, it works because of dynamic, intense, and entangled storyline. A main story happens on the plane, a president and his family trying to escape from the villain AND the crash. Political matter of releasing a dictator and a vice president handling the whole situation in White House strengthen the connection among all three different settings. With the help of music, 'Air Force One' succeeds in keeping on the edge of the seat, nervously waiting for next to happen.
Pure popcorn entertainment as Petersen racks up the tension to 11
Colbridge22 January 2022
Strap yourself in, hold tight and prepare for take off in Wolfgang Petersen's exciting edge of your seat action thriller starring Harrison Ford as the President of the United States who has to fend off Russian terrorists, led by Gary Oldman, who have seized control of the President's plane Air Force One for the release of a General who had previously been captured by US Special Forces.
Petersen takes the Die Hard concept and racks up the tension to 11, often sacrificing implausibility for thrills and action that only work because of the likeability and charisma of Ford who knows how to pull these types of movies off and the nastiness of Oldman's character who, although a little stereotypical, has you rooting for the President to dispense with the crazed villain by taking things into his own hands.
This is pure popcorn entertainment and not one to be scrutinised for accuracy, for example there is no escape pod in the real Air Force One. The movie takes the tried and tested cliches of the genre and cranks them up to high octane levels and for all the cheesiness and American jingoism going on here you are too busy holding onto the white knuckle ride to care.
A thoroughly entertaining action movie with a big budget that's up there on the screen even though it wants to have it's cake and eat it in the final third as Petersen gives us several climatic scenes that threaten to outstay it's welcome.
Petersen takes the Die Hard concept and racks up the tension to 11, often sacrificing implausibility for thrills and action that only work because of the likeability and charisma of Ford who knows how to pull these types of movies off and the nastiness of Oldman's character who, although a little stereotypical, has you rooting for the President to dispense with the crazed villain by taking things into his own hands.
This is pure popcorn entertainment and not one to be scrutinised for accuracy, for example there is no escape pod in the real Air Force One. The movie takes the tried and tested cliches of the genre and cranks them up to high octane levels and for all the cheesiness and American jingoism going on here you are too busy holding onto the white knuckle ride to care.
A thoroughly entertaining action movie with a big budget that's up there on the screen even though it wants to have it's cake and eat it in the final third as Petersen gives us several climatic scenes that threaten to outstay it's welcome.
Good actors, bad movie...(spolers)
morfeus3 August 2004
Five things we learn after watching this movie: 1.All Russians are either terrorists or cowards. 2.MP5, MP5K, M4 and Sig Sauer PRO are superior wonders of Western weaponary, which need no reloading ever. 3.When 6 Russian fighters attack Air Force One only one of them will fire at a time.(Courtesy towards enemy anti-missle system, I guess:)) 4.In air combat, Russian pilots never maneuver, even when targeted, guess, there is no chance to escape superior American missiles, so they don't bother anyway. 5.When a terrorist fires a gun, the bullet is stopped by body armor. When President fires the same gun, bullets go through armor like a knife through butter. 2/10 for casting Oldman.
Combat in the sky...on Air Force One no less...
Doylenf12 September 2006
As action thrillers, go, AIR FORCE ONE has enough of a plot to keep you watching closely as terrorists take over the presidential plane, a sleek beauty of a craft that makes a gleaming set piece for this kind of adventure in the sky. And who is better qualified to take care of things than HARRISON FORD, somewhat less impressive without that hat and familiar stubble as Indiana Jones. (Well, maybe KEVIN COSTNER who was originally slated for the role).
GLENN CLOSE makes a very commanding presence as the Vice President, seemingly never at a loss in moments of distress, and GARY OLDMAN handles his Russian accent and menacing villainy with his usual aplomb. It's just that if you stop long enough to take a breath while all the action is going on, you might see that underneath all the fancy pinnings this is regulation stuff that's been time countless times before--and sometimes with better results.
The cast is impressive with WILLIAM H. MACY and DEAN STOCKWELL on the prez's team and Jerry Goldsmith providing another one of his dependable, if unmemorable, action scores.
And although Wolfgang Petersen does a nifty job of directing, turning the president of the U.S. into an action hero performing stunts that seasoned stuntmen must have been hired for, does stretch credibility a good deal for the climactic moments when airborne peril is at the max for a cliffhanger ending.
Not bad as an action thriller, but just don't expect it to be any more substantial than a sleek new video game.
GLENN CLOSE makes a very commanding presence as the Vice President, seemingly never at a loss in moments of distress, and GARY OLDMAN handles his Russian accent and menacing villainy with his usual aplomb. It's just that if you stop long enough to take a breath while all the action is going on, you might see that underneath all the fancy pinnings this is regulation stuff that's been time countless times before--and sometimes with better results.
The cast is impressive with WILLIAM H. MACY and DEAN STOCKWELL on the prez's team and Jerry Goldsmith providing another one of his dependable, if unmemorable, action scores.
And although Wolfgang Petersen does a nifty job of directing, turning the president of the U.S. into an action hero performing stunts that seasoned stuntmen must have been hired for, does stretch credibility a good deal for the climactic moments when airborne peril is at the max for a cliffhanger ending.
Not bad as an action thriller, but just don't expect it to be any more substantial than a sleek new video game.
Slightly over the top
tstrahle-213-25172215 July 2022
Spoiler Alert!
Rewatching this film for the first time in years I found it extremely unlikely that there would be this much orange juice on Air Force One. I mean can't they restock at each airport? Wouldn't it go bad before they could drink it all?
Rewatching this film for the first time in years I found it extremely unlikely that there would be this much orange juice on Air Force One. I mean can't they restock at each airport? Wouldn't it go bad before they could drink it all?
Pure action
Xophianic2 February 2000
Why can't our president kick this much ***? Air Force One seemed like a pure action movie to me. And I loved it. Some parts could have been a little more believeable, but it was still very fun and entertaining.
The acting in this movie was good. Harrison Ford, as always, did an excellent job as the star of this movie. Gary Oldman, the greatest movie bad guy of all time, did not disappoint. It was cool to see Glenn Close as the vice president, keeping the blood-sucking politicians at bay. Another great performance, although not given enough credit, is from William H. Macy, who is one of my favorite of the lesser known actors.
The storyline is fair, but nothing special or too original. The only difference is in this case, the president is not a hostage but the man fighting the terrorists. Terrorists manage to hijack Air Force One and kidnap many important people, the presidents kids, some politicans, some secret service guys and a bunch of extras they threw in to fill up the plane. They thought the president had escaped, but the truth was he stayed behind to fight the terrorists, retake the plane and save his family.
This movie is a great action flick which I enjoyed a lot. It's not meant to be ground-breaking or anything like that, it's just meant to be enjoyed. So go out and enjoy it!
The acting in this movie was good. Harrison Ford, as always, did an excellent job as the star of this movie. Gary Oldman, the greatest movie bad guy of all time, did not disappoint. It was cool to see Glenn Close as the vice president, keeping the blood-sucking politicians at bay. Another great performance, although not given enough credit, is from William H. Macy, who is one of my favorite of the lesser known actors.
The storyline is fair, but nothing special or too original. The only difference is in this case, the president is not a hostage but the man fighting the terrorists. Terrorists manage to hijack Air Force One and kidnap many important people, the presidents kids, some politicans, some secret service guys and a bunch of extras they threw in to fill up the plane. They thought the president had escaped, but the truth was he stayed behind to fight the terrorists, retake the plane and save his family.
This movie is a great action flick which I enjoyed a lot. It's not meant to be ground-breaking or anything like that, it's just meant to be enjoyed. So go out and enjoy it!
The Other President Ford.
questl-1859221 February 2021
It had been a long time since I saw this and I was a little worried it wouldn't hold up but I'm pleasantly surprised to find I still really enjoy this. Now, to be fair, it's not amazing or anything. This isn't a perfect movie but it's so watchable and enjoyable. This is a great movie to just toss on and enjoy the ride. Ford is a compelling on screen president and absolutely worth watching him yell at people to get off his plane. Then there's Oldman and his crazy Russian accent that is probably offensive but it so perfect in a cartoon villain way that I just dig it.
Again, not a great movie but it's a super fun watch. Easy for background noise or for those with an action jones they need to satisfy.
Again, not a great movie but it's a super fun watch. Easy for background noise or for those with an action jones they need to satisfy.
A Great Thriller!
g-bodyl28 September 2008
Air Force One is a very good thriller. The action and suspense will be nothing to forget. This movie is about the President's plane, Air Force One being hijacked by Russian nationalists with the President on board. Now it's up to the President and the Vice-President to negotiate with the terrorists or the hostages will die. The acting in this film is pretty good. Harrison Ford did justice with his outstanding performance as the President. Gary Oldman is good as the evil terrorist. The music in this film is fabulous and patriotic considering that the score took two weeks by Jerry Goldmith to compose. I liked the effects in this film. There is nothing special, but for a film from 1997, this has good effects even though there are few. Overall, this is a good movie for everybody except for kids. This film is a moving picture with outstanding courage. My rating is 10/10.
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