"Lei Yu" (the competent Yibo Wang) is an aspiring test pilot who is selected to take part in a prestigious programme to improve the efficiency of the Chinese Air Force's jet fighters. A bit of rivalry with "Deng Fang" (Yosh Yu) and inspiration from their commander "Zhang" (Jun Hu) makes sure the young man and his equipment are tested to the extreme - but can he rise to the challenge? It certainly has a bit of the look of "Maverick" (2022) to it, with some impressive aerial photography and dog-fighting and it also tries to imbue something of the engineering and science to the plot - crediting the young airmen with skills well beyond just being able to fly a plane. Sadly, though, the producers just couldn't (or wouldn't) steer clear of the political jingoism that rather nauseatingly lauds the virtues of their Air Force against an unknown (English-speaking) foe that is constantly harassing and threatening them. By mid-way through I felt rather sorry for "Lei Yu" - to say he seemed a bit accident-prone would be like saying Jonah liked whales - so the fact that he survives at all is quite a remarkable feat! There's the merest hint of a romance with his doctor "Shen Tianran" (Dongyu Zhou) but for the most part this is all about a young man's determination to succeed. It's perfectly watchable with some decent production standards and had it kept off the flag-waving grass, it could have made for another example of well-enough made high-octane cinema. At times it just smacks too much of a party rallying cry though, and that lets it down.
59 Reviews
Entertaining, but still propaganda fluff
behen-931046 March 2024
The movie is through and through a propaganda fluff piece. Intentional CCP untruths being propagated. Movie talks about china being invaded, when we all know china is the aggressor, constantly harassing Phillipines, Taiwan, Vietnam with its sweeping claims of sovereignty over the sea and the sea's estimated 11 billion barrels of untapped oil and 190 trillion cubic feet of natural gas available despite losing its case in UNCLOS. China's hostilities towards India are well known. That china purports to possess stealth technology by stealing, honeypotting, and hacking US defence systems is well known. This movie is just a diversion claiming that china developed its stealth tech indegenously when everyone knows its just stolen.
Lulz
mjahalstead30 October 2023
Warning: Spoilers
The two stars is for the effort of AI generative text. Fokkea provides a nice copy and paste from chatgpt using at least topgun as one of his keywords.
As for the movie - It opens with two f35s flying at sea level and causing damage.. presumably due to sonic boom? Some dude gives chase to the Americans (with awful accents) who basically are saying "we go where we please" over the radio. The Chinese interceptor jet then has an engine fire and glides 60kms back to base, kick-starting the Chinese stealth fighter programme. What the follows is a movie full of lots of illogical malfunctions that serve as a prop for emotional damage... ejector seats, bird strikes, drogue shoots. Another gimmick is that the throttle always seems to have a 'more than afterburner' segment, similar to the neverending gears in the fast and the furious. It's terrible, patriotic and the FX are pretty flimsy.
As for the movie - It opens with two f35s flying at sea level and causing damage.. presumably due to sonic boom? Some dude gives chase to the Americans (with awful accents) who basically are saying "we go where we please" over the radio. The Chinese interceptor jet then has an engine fire and glides 60kms back to base, kick-starting the Chinese stealth fighter programme. What the follows is a movie full of lots of illogical malfunctions that serve as a prop for emotional damage... ejector seats, bird strikes, drogue shoots. Another gimmick is that the throttle always seems to have a 'more than afterburner' segment, similar to the neverending gears in the fast and the furious. It's terrible, patriotic and the FX are pretty flimsy.
Total disaster
theYinChienchiao22 September 2023
It's quite awkward and embarrassing, like a poor imitation of Top Gun. It's an excellent example of the director's arrogance, who seems to have no understanding of a pilot's duty. The whole movie revolves around an arrogant character who thinks he's unrivaled and pretends to know about engineering and design, while the rest of the characters seem to exist solely to praise and flatter him, ensuring he has enough opportunities to showcase his supposed coolness. The entire storyline is a complete catastrophe, not to mention the numerous setting errors. It begs the question, where was the budget spent? It seems they invested all their money in hiring this "handsome" guy instead of consulting with aviation experts.
A must see movie in 2013
goryue30 April 2023
I was quite sceptical when my friend invited me to see this movie yesterday. I have not seen any work by the director LiuXiaoshi before. This movie was really powerful and very impressive. The acting was superb, the cinematography was stunning, and the story was gripping. I was on the edge of my seat. This is the first time I know the stories about the test pilots for fighter jets. I will give all my respect to the test pilots, a group of extremely brave people. I don't want to give away any spoilers, but I will say that this movie is a must-see. I will recommend to all my families and friends. Don't miss it!
Awesome and so believable
Vivid5301 May 2023
Before the release, many people expected the movie to be compared with Top gun. To be honest I was also wondering until I watched it in the theater this weekend. It's completely Apple to orange.
"Born To Fly" does not have the charm of Tom Cruise and the chemistry of love between the hero and heroin. However, the "Born to Fly" story was built on top of the real history of how Chinese developed the stealth flogger Chengdu-J20 and it showcased a profession ( testing pilot) that I had no idea about. They live in life and death each day and has the most dangerous job even in a era without war. Every part of the story is so believable. The acting was also so natural that I cried for a long time and left the theater with a heavy heart filled with respect to the testing pilots.
"Born To Fly" does not have the charm of Tom Cruise and the chemistry of love between the hero and heroin. However, the "Born to Fly" story was built on top of the real history of how Chinese developed the stealth flogger Chengdu-J20 and it showcased a profession ( testing pilot) that I had no idea about. They live in life and death each day and has the most dangerous job even in a era without war. Every part of the story is so believable. The acting was also so natural that I cried for a long time and left the theater with a heavy heart filled with respect to the testing pilots.
A decent story with great action, good acting and effects!!
varsha-dubey29 April 2023
I saw #BorntoFly in the evening show today. The whole audience was immersed in the movie, and the whole audience laughed and cried.
It was not deliberately sensational, but the true portrayal that one could see touched people's hearts.
Am not Chinese but I could see Lei Yu's (played by Actor Wang Yibo) performance really ignited the indomitable spirit in the heart of audiences.. many had tissues and many whistled!! Great CGI and good storytelling!! I only wish for more time in this movie for romance :) hey the main couple look good!
Overall a good action packed movie which projects the life and struggles of test pilots!
It was not deliberately sensational, but the true portrayal that one could see touched people's hearts.
Am not Chinese but I could see Lei Yu's (played by Actor Wang Yibo) performance really ignited the indomitable spirit in the heart of audiences.. many had tissues and many whistled!! Great CGI and good storytelling!! I only wish for more time in this movie for romance :) hey the main couple look good!
Overall a good action packed movie which projects the life and struggles of test pilots!
A thrilling exciting movie full of emotions
sarahsharjeel29 April 2023
An amazing watch full of emotions and pride it's a story about test pilots and there efforts for there motherland the presentation of the movie is excellent the CGI on point all the shots are great to watch
The story is about the main character Lei Yu his growth how passion and endless effort to make the best stealth fighter WangYibo is natural and effortless as Lei Yu bringing this character to.life making him all passionate and believable Hu Jun Zhang ting is very good very authoritative very brave Zhou dong yu has a short but good supportive role giving Lei Yu some good emotions all other characters played there part well
The narrative is simple and straightforward with enough fun emotions and some heartbreaking scenes all natural and relatable
Recommended to all 👍👍
Burning and explosive
xiongph29 April 2023
Wasn't sure what to expect going into this movie even though we know the synopsis that these men are test pilots.
Lei Yu was a fighter pilot who was recruited to be a test pilot. From here, his character develop. The movie overall was burning, explosive and exciting! The beginning scene could make a run for many Hollywood's movies. The comedy in here is spot on too but some pun cannot be transfer from Chinese to English well. This is the sucky part many westerners will miss on this pun sense of humor.
The friendship and chemistry between the team is good too.
The romance is subtle but nice.
Recommend high watch..
Lei Yu was a fighter pilot who was recruited to be a test pilot. From here, his character develop. The movie overall was burning, explosive and exciting! The beginning scene could make a run for many Hollywood's movies. The comedy in here is spot on too but some pun cannot be transfer from Chinese to English well. This is the sucky part many westerners will miss on this pun sense of humor.
The friendship and chemistry between the team is good too.
The romance is subtle but nice.
Recommend high watch..
Amazing Film!
wangyibo_188529 April 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Born to Fly is a amazing movie. I'd say Lei Yu character fits Wang Yibo's temperament! Lei Yu likes to go beyond the limits! Born To Fly is too good! I love how the movie depicts the life of Test Pilot! Test Pilot are the real hero's and they put their life on risk when they go for the real testing! Salute to all the hero's! Wang Yibo's acting is perfect, and the scene where the parachute ejection failed, Yibo parachuted but was dragged that scene was so disheartening ! But the scene at the end, where everyone gave up hope but Lei Yu proved them wrong!! I was so happy and proud that Lei Yu made it.
Great movie
referris30 April 2023
First of al the sound design and special effects are great. Really helps to get drawn into the story. The CGI looks real not like CGI
The acting by the entire cast is very good but the 2 lead actors are especially good. The story very closely follows the template of the hero's journey with a few twists that would not be part of a Western movie. In order to remain spoiler free I will not go into further details. There is enough humour sprinkled throughout the movie to make it feel real. There is also sad scenes to bring home the serious nature of there work and how dangerous it is. In short a very enjoyable movie. The movie has almost nothing in common with the 2 Top Guns other then planes are a part of the movie and pilots compete with each other.
Thoroughly enjoyable movie
foamyth7 May 2023
Born to Fly kept me entertained for the full two hours of the movie. It had cool effects which honestly stunned, kept me laughing and also brought me to tears.
It's a story that celebrates the achievements of a team rather than the glories of the individual. It also gives a glimpse into the lives and work of test pilots, a job that most of us probably have never really thought about.
The pacing of the movie is great, with moments of comedy and poignancy being balanced just right.
The acting is pretty on point too, with the young actors giving off the right vibes of boyish cockiness that matures at the end of the movie.
Really enjoyed it.
It's a story that celebrates the achievements of a team rather than the glories of the individual. It also gives a glimpse into the lives and work of test pilots, a job that most of us probably have never really thought about.
The pacing of the movie is great, with moments of comedy and poignancy being balanced just right.
The acting is pretty on point too, with the young actors giving off the right vibes of boyish cockiness that matures at the end of the movie.
Really enjoyed it.
I enjoyed both the story and the cinematography
wonderfulxueqian5 May 2023
I'm impressed by how much this film shows China's improvements in fighter aircrafts over the past few decades. I heard the director is specialized in filming aircrafts and the plot is extracted from test pilots' real-life experiences, some of them are his friends who have dedicated their lives to designing more advanced fighter aircrafts. Have to say I cried like a three year old at the funeral scene. That being said, the film is also filled with laughters. A very good movie that can be joined by all age range. Highly recommended. PS. I was late and missed the first 10ish mins and would definitely watch it again while it's still in theater.
Top Notch CGI, the movie will bring everyone to emotional roller coaster
wnnyh30 April 2023
The first time I enjoyed Air force movie theme, not the same as any movie with plane and pilot I've watched before. The movie tells a story about a test pilot, an occupation not everybody aware about how dangerous it is and all the benefit they bring to their country aviation industry.
The movie is not about a bunch of pilot showing off their skills and be the best.
The comedy is refreshing, you will laugh, but you will also scream and breathless at certain point, and there will be scene that make your tears coming down on your face.
Love the movie, it is worth rewatching, given the fast pace of the movie, audience might miss a lot of details on their first watch.
The movie is not about a bunch of pilot showing off their skills and be the best.
The comedy is refreshing, you will laugh, but you will also scream and breathless at certain point, and there will be scene that make your tears coming down on your face.
Love the movie, it is worth rewatching, given the fast pace of the movie, audience might miss a lot of details on their first watch.
Chinese fighter jets
frwjxfbrf30 April 2023
I like the most and deeply touched is Zhang Ting saying "I can't go back, you keep going" before dying. The stealth fighter developed by the Chinese with their own technology is worthy of praise.
As a backup force, test pilots are required to test various aircraft. The risk level is very high, but everyone is willing to do it, which is very commendable. In the film, Zhang Ting is 073, but the test flight team starts from 081. I think the number that doe doesn't appear in this middle is actually already sacrificed.
So this really gives you a sense of the dangers of being a test pilot. Behind Lei Yu and Deng Fang encounter bird strikes, life on the line let me very nervous, afraid of them sacrifice like Zhang Ting, fortunately it is redundant. Handsome pilots and handsome fighters, I really like this kind of movie.
As a backup force, test pilots are required to test various aircraft. The risk level is very high, but everyone is willing to do it, which is very commendable. In the film, Zhang Ting is 073, but the test flight team starts from 081. I think the number that doe doesn't appear in this middle is actually already sacrificed.
So this really gives you a sense of the dangers of being a test pilot. Behind Lei Yu and Deng Fang encounter bird strikes, life on the line let me very nervous, afraid of them sacrifice like Zhang Ting, fortunately it is redundant. Handsome pilots and handsome fighters, I really like this kind of movie.
China #1
fokkaeu29 April 2023
"Born to Fly" is a classic 80s action film that remains popular even decades after its initial release. The movie follows the story of Li "Maverick" Ming, a talented but reckless fighter pilot who is selected to attend the Chinese Air Force's elite Born to Fly school. Alongside his rival, Wang "Iceman" Lei, Li learns to push his limits and become the best of the best.
While some of the movie's themes, such as the glorification of war and the objectification of women, may not sit well with modern audiences, "Born to Fly" remains an entertaining and exciting film that captures the spirit of 80s action cinema. If you're in the mood for some high-flying adventure, "Born to Fly" is definitely worth a watch.
While some of the movie's themes, such as the glorification of war and the objectification of women, may not sit well with modern audiences, "Born to Fly" remains an entertaining and exciting film that captures the spirit of 80s action cinema. If you're in the mood for some high-flying adventure, "Born to Fly" is definitely worth a watch.
Put your prejudices aside and really watch the movie
gwl85025830 April 2023
This movie is about test pilots, their dedication and their sacrifices to protect the country they love. If you call this propaganda, then isn't all military propaganda? Put politics and prejudices aside and watch the movie for what it is. It's a story about the journey of a young pilot, Lei Yu, to becoming a great test pilot. The director is one of the best I see in filming jet planes. I've never see jet planes so beautifully filmed before. The movie also went under heavy scrutiny to make sure all the facts are right. It is action packed right from the start and it has moments that makes you laugh and moments that makes you cry. The CGI is done perfectly and the surround sound of the roar of the plane engine ripping through the sky gets you all fired up. It has shots of gorgeous landscapes and clouds that makes you wish you were a pilot! The acting by the entire cast is excellent and natural. Wang Yibo's acting amazes each time as you go through every emotion he goes through. I do love that Lei Yu has flaws and makes mistakes, unlike other movies where hero is always the best. One thing I would love is to see more interaction with more of his teammates and get to know them better. They look like a fun group. I also love how the director deals with romance in this movie. Although it was barely there, one glance is more than enough to let the imagination fly! Overall, it's a great movie that the whole family can enjoy. It has just the right amount of everything. I'm ready for a rewatch! It's very unfortunate they don't show it in IMAX here.
Fly high and fly safe
wylbxfjh5529 April 2023
I was so excited to watch the movie with my family this afternoon. It is a great movie telling the touching stories of the test pilots who risk their lives to guarantee us safe and our countries strong. Director Liu well presented the stories with amazing plots and leave viewers "enviable" mood changes. Starring Yibo Wang and Jun Hu left me a deep impression to interpret how noble and admirable the close comradeship and mutual trust are.
The two perfectly convey the inner world through their awesome line skills also their eyes and bodies. It was moving to see the captain and Lei Yu to sacrifice their families or even their personal lives to devote to their beloved career. Viewers were laughing and crying and shouting. As ordinary people, I learned from this movie that we should cherish our happy lives that those test pilots bought at the costs of their hot-blooded youths and priceless lives. The test pilots are beautiful angels who worth our sublime respect. Salute to the heroes! You will always be remembered in the world! Salute to the family members of the heroes! You are always the cutest people.
The two perfectly convey the inner world through their awesome line skills also their eyes and bodies. It was moving to see the captain and Lei Yu to sacrifice their families or even their personal lives to devote to their beloved career. Viewers were laughing and crying and shouting. As ordinary people, I learned from this movie that we should cherish our happy lives that those test pilots bought at the costs of their hot-blooded youths and priceless lives. The test pilots are beautiful angels who worth our sublime respect. Salute to the heroes! You will always be remembered in the world! Salute to the family members of the heroes! You are always the cutest people.
Fantastic Film
syajuju2 May 2023
What I can say is that this movie is very amazing, inspiring and touching. All the feeling about this movie is beyond words. The whole film does not focus on the air battle scenes caused by the air disputes between countries, but the thrilling scenes do appear one after another. Every character has their own personality. There are not only competition among comrades in arms, but also humorous laughs. The relationship between the hero and heroine is also to the point. The most touching thing is the last messages of the real pilots before the sacrifice that appeared at the end of the film. The tone is so calm, but every word reveals his nostalgia for his dearest and loved ones.
Excellent movie
lu-710492 May 2023
After seeing Born to Fly,I am full of hope for Chinese military movies. He does not preach or force into the plot, but shows the real life of soldiers in a humorous rhythm. These warm-blooded guys may be ordinary people who have passed by us before, but it is their dedication and sacrifice that enables more ordinary people to live a safe life. Military movies should not only show military strength, but also control the degree, to have tears with laugh and to have highlights. I really praise for the skill of the screenwriter, but also for a bo of their passionate young men's true interpretation of praise, actor Wang Yibo is amazing and this the second movie for him which has shown his extraordinary understanding of the character and he matches with every movie role so well. Hope of Chinese film.
Definitely worth watching it at the theatre
agnespchow1 May 2023
Big budgeted film with the help of Chinese military. There are shots of test pilot cemetery and big field of solar panels that I don't think it has been revealed to outside world before. Most of the content is based on true stories. The movie contains a lot of interesting and technical stuff about a little known career - test pilots. Surprisingly, I enjoy learning all those technical terms. The test flight scenes are super intense thanks to the very well done CGI. The romance line is almost non-existent and actually I think, unnecessary. There are also some humors here and there. Expect some degree of patriotism propaganda though.
A proud movie! "Born to Fly"
jrh-411873 May 2023
What a proud movie! "Born to fly" has a humorous taste, a sincere teaching, a sense of parting from life and death, and more explosive fighters galloping into the blue sky. I saw the young blood and enthusiasm; I also saw Middle-aged calmness and feelings of family and country; I feel the support and waiting of the old people. Salute to the dancers on the tip of the knife - test pilots! Salute to every unknown aviation industry player behind the scenes.
These test pilots have to fly for their duty and the country; and we have to get to know the group of test pilots, and understand the hardships of national aviation, the current development status and future prospects. Because they have been shown us on the big screen. I, a small moviegoer, sincerely recommend this movie to everyone. I hope more people can see the dedication of those heroes who are not well-known to the public! Remember those lonely brave men who sacrificed!
Thanks to the director, producer, all the main actors and the entire crew for presenting us such a good work.
Not long ago I watched the movie "Hidden Blade", and I was deeply impressed by young actor Wang Yibo. It is worth mentioning again here. I am very happy to see an actor like Wang Yibo who is handsome, tall, with a good coat hanger and good acting skills. Here he successfully plays the role of Test pilot Lei Yu. I am very optimistic about his potential, I believe he can create more different roles and more challenging roles. Cheer for the new generation of outstanding actors! Cheer for Chinese movies!
These test pilots have to fly for their duty and the country; and we have to get to know the group of test pilots, and understand the hardships of national aviation, the current development status and future prospects. Because they have been shown us on the big screen. I, a small moviegoer, sincerely recommend this movie to everyone. I hope more people can see the dedication of those heroes who are not well-known to the public! Remember those lonely brave men who sacrificed!
Thanks to the director, producer, all the main actors and the entire crew for presenting us such a good work.
Not long ago I watched the movie "Hidden Blade", and I was deeply impressed by young actor Wang Yibo. It is worth mentioning again here. I am very happy to see an actor like Wang Yibo who is handsome, tall, with a good coat hanger and good acting skills. Here he successfully plays the role of Test pilot Lei Yu. I am very optimistic about his potential, I believe he can create more different roles and more challenging roles. Cheer for the new generation of outstanding actors! Cheer for Chinese movies!
An awe-inspiring film!
SaraLeigh99930 April 2023
"Born to Fly" is an exceptional movie that takes you on an incredible journey of courage, passion, and determination. The film is a visually stunning spectacle that showcases some of the most breathtaking aerial action sequences in cinema. The cinematography and sound design are simply outstanding, immersing you in the world of the Chinese Air Force test pilots who risk their lives to test new fighter jets.
What truly sets "Born to Fly" apart is Wang Yibo's exceptional performance as the lead character. Yibo delivers a natural, convincing, and touching performance that is truly unforgettable. He brings a lot of energy and emotion to the role, perfectly portraying the character's struggles, fears, and triumphs. Yibo is able to convey the character's physical challenges with great authenticity, giving viewers a real sense of the dangers and sacrifices involved in becoming a test pilot.
Overall, "Born to Fly" is a must-watch movie for anyone who loves action dramas and inspiring stories. The film is visually stunning, emotionally resonant, and features an exceptional performance by Wang Yibo. It's a movie that will stay with you long after you've watched it, leaving you feeling inspired and uplifted.
What truly sets "Born to Fly" apart is Wang Yibo's exceptional performance as the lead character. Yibo delivers a natural, convincing, and touching performance that is truly unforgettable. He brings a lot of energy and emotion to the role, perfectly portraying the character's struggles, fears, and triumphs. Yibo is able to convey the character's physical challenges with great authenticity, giving viewers a real sense of the dangers and sacrifices involved in becoming a test pilot.
Overall, "Born to Fly" is a must-watch movie for anyone who loves action dramas and inspiring stories. The film is visually stunning, emotionally resonant, and features an exceptional performance by Wang Yibo. It's a movie that will stay with you long after you've watched it, leaving you feeling inspired and uplifted.
GREAT FILM!
silverpaj1 May 2023
Normally I was a bit worry about the CGI but when watching this, it was totally awesome ! It's really a great film about the story of a group of test pilots and what they overcome.
The job of a test pilot is scary as they have to put themselves as test subject to make sure the jet is safe for the fighter pilot.
The cast and especially Wang Yibo did an amazing job. His character was a bit too sure of himself in the beginning. He caused some mistakes and after some unfortunate event, learned to take charge and made great changes.
Overall a great film to watch with family and to learn more about the seriousness of being a test pilot.
The job of a test pilot is scary as they have to put themselves as test subject to make sure the jet is safe for the fighter pilot.
The cast and especially Wang Yibo did an amazing job. His character was a bit too sure of himself in the beginning. He caused some mistakes and after some unfortunate event, learned to take charge and made great changes.
Overall a great film to watch with family and to learn more about the seriousness of being a test pilot.
A realistic and inspiring movie
carrollyoung6 May 2023
"Born to Fly" is a remarkable film that tells the story of Chinese test pilots with precision and authenticity. The movie does an excellent job of portraying the real-life struggles and sacrifices that these pilots make in the pursuit of their jobs. The technical accuracy of the film is outstanding, and the attention to detail in depicting the fighter jets and their capabilities is impressive. With the participation of actual test pilots and military bases as filming locations, the movie's authenticity is never in doubt.
The film follows the journey of one test pilot, and his character development is both realistic and inspiring. The flight scenes are breathtaking, providing an immersive cinematic experience that makes the audience feel like they are piloting the aircraft themselves. The blend of education and entertainment is seamless, making "Born to Fly" a well-crafted and balanced film. It's an exceptional movie that will undoubtedly appeal to anyone interested in military aviation or looking for an exciting cinematic experience. Overall, "Born to Fly" is a must-watch film that showcases the bravery and dedication of Chinese test pilots in a captivating way.
The film follows the journey of one test pilot, and his character development is both realistic and inspiring. The flight scenes are breathtaking, providing an immersive cinematic experience that makes the audience feel like they are piloting the aircraft themselves. The blend of education and entertainment is seamless, making "Born to Fly" a well-crafted and balanced film. It's an exceptional movie that will undoubtedly appeal to anyone interested in military aviation or looking for an exciting cinematic experience. Overall, "Born to Fly" is a must-watch film that showcases the bravery and dedication of Chinese test pilots in a captivating way.
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