An indispensable documentary for anyone fascinated by self-made American legends, particularly those real-life characters who burn brightly like comets and then crash to Earth, Howard Hughes: The Real Aviator draws upon Hughes' own writings from his final, reclusive years (read by an actor, though extensive film clips of the real public figure also leave a powerful impression). Interviews with former allies, friends, one ex-wife (Terry Moore), and executives from Hughes' sundry enterprises also add to the story of a 19-year-old prodigy who took the reins of his late father's hugely successful Hughes Tool Company and expanded into cutting-edge aviation design, while also branching out into Hollywood filmmaking. Hughes was a public hero, breaking every flight speed record in sight with planes of his own design while also making time for directing Hell's Angels and dating Katharine Hepburn. A penchant for solitude, overreaching in the flight industry (especially via government contracts), and a plane mishap that nearly killed Hughes (and resulted in lifelong drug addiction) set the stage for a fascinating man's bizarre withdrawal from the world. An extraordinary and sad tale, sure to be of interest thanks to the theatrical release of Martin Scorsese's new biographical film on Hughes, The Aviator, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, DVD extras on this budget-priced, award-winning release include two hours of bonus footage, such as Hughes' combative appearances before a Senate committee investigating his use of government money to build a failed dream project, the colossal "flying boat" also known as the "Spruce Goose." Highly recommended. Editor's Choice. Aud: H, C, P. (T. Keogh)
Howard Hughes: The Real Aviator
(2004) 170 min. DVD: $12.98. Shout! Factory (avail. from most distributors). Color cover. ISBN: 0-7389-3075-X. Volume 20, Issue 1
Howard Hughes: The Real Aviator
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