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Wings

Name: Wings
Director: William A. Wellman
Released: 1927
Duration: 144 min

Representation Score

0.3/10

Minimal

1927

PG-13

Director

William A. Wellman

Runtime

144 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Wings is a classic war film that emphasizes technical accuracy and military organization over social diversity. The narrative revolves around the heroism of white male pilots within the Royal Flying Corps, reflecting the social structures of the 1920s. The film captures the intense impact of combat but lacks depth in representing diverse identities. Gender roles are strict, with women sidelined from the main action, and the racial makeup is overwhelmingly white. Overall, Wings upholds traditional Western institutions and masculine ideals, offering limited representation of underrepresented groups.

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Category Breakdown

Does Wings have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film centers on heterosexual relationships and rivalry between two men for a woman's affection.

How does Wings portray gender?

Limited

Male characters lead the narrative through combat and military command, while females mainly serve as emotional support or romantic motivation.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Wings?

Minimal

The cast is predominantly white, with very few non-white characters represented.

How does Wings represent religion and culture?

Minimal

The story highlights traditional Western institutions like the military and patriotism, presenting a clear-cut distinction between heroes and enemies.

Does Wings include disability representation?

Minimal

Combat injuries are used as plot devices to advance the storyline, without focusing on neurodivergence or chronic conditions.

Present on Screen

Accurate depiction of early aerial combat and military operations.
Emphasis on themes of friendship and duty during wartime.

Limited or Absent

Women have limited autonomy and character development.
Scarce representation of non-white or non-Anglo-Saxon individuals.
No inclusion of LGBTQ+ identities or non-assuming gender matches what was assigned at birth perspectives.

Official Synopsis

Two young men, one rich, one middle class, both in love with the same woman, become US Air Corps fighter pilots and, eventually, heroic flying aces during World War I. Devoted best friends, their mutual love of the girl eventually threatens their bond. Meanwhile, a hometown girl who's the lovestruck lifelong next door neighbor of one of them pines away.

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