How Do Airplanes Fly?

Trying to explain aerodynamic theory to a child (or adult, for that matter) is a tall order under any circumstance. In the framework of a low-budget video with primitive animated graphics, however, it becomes nearly impossible. After a brief introduction filled with film clips of man's earlier attempts to fly, the program drops in on a pair of young boys flying a model airplane who go visit with a real pilot to learn about airplanes. The kids deliver their lines in a fairly wooden manner and then watch expressionless as the pilot gamely tries to reduce fairly technical information into understandable chunks. A serious student of flight would be able to piece together the basics of aerodynamics from this, but most children will be left on the ground. Not recommended. For ages 9 and up. (R. Pitman)