HBO's latest World War II series, Masters of the Air, has finally landed on our screens. Developed for Apple TV+ by John Orloff and executive produced by Tom Hanks, Gary Goetzman, and Steven Spielberg, this highly anticipated series is the third installment in the Playtone-produced World War II dramas. Based on Donald L. Miller's book of the same name, Masters of the Air doesn't disappoint when it comes to delivering epic longform storytelling.
The series revolves around the 100th Bomb Group, stationed at RAF Thorpe Abbotts in England. This group played a crucial role in the European front of the war and earned the nickname the Bloody Hundredth due to the high number of casualties they suffered. From the very beginning, viewers are warned that not all the characters introduced in the early episodes will make it to the finale, setting the stage for an emotionally charged and unpredictable narrative.
One of the notable challenges faced by the writers is the vast ensemble cast. With a focus on heroic young white men with mustaches, it becomes difficult to distinguish between characters at times. However, standout performances from actors like Callum Turner, Anthony Boyle, and Nate Mann help to anchor the narrative and provide compelling character arcs.
Directed by a team of talented filmmakers, including Cary Joji Fukunaga, Anna Boden & Ryan Fleck, Dee Rees, and Tim Van Patten, Masters of the Air impresses with its stunning visuals and attention to detail. From the awe-inspiring shots of bombers and fighters soaring across the horizon to the tense and claustrophobic moments within the aircraft, the series captures the nightmare of aerial combat with precision.
The production values of Masters of the Air are top-notch, with exceptional cinematography, detailed production design, and impressive costumes. However, it is the sound design that truly immerses viewers in the action, delivering the echoing chaos of war with every gunshot, explosion, and instrument failure.
As with its predecessors, Masters of the Air carries a sense of nostalgia for a time when ideology was shaped by moral imperatives rather than politics. Its patriotism is rooted in a genuine appreciation for the sacrifices made during the war and an acknowledgment of the inherent heroism in those who fought against Nazi oppression. The show manages to convey this without resorting to jingoism, making it an invigorating and flag-waving affair.
While Masters of the Air does have its flaws, such as a slightly repetitive narrative structure and underdeveloped female characters, it's the overall achievement of the series that shines through. The moments of breathtaking spectacle and the emotional resonance of the characters' journeys make it a worthwhile watch.
In the end, Masters of the Air may not surpass the greatness of Band of Brothers or The Pacific, but it stands as a testament to the craftsmanship and emotional impact of longform storytelling. With its mammoth ensemble cast, stunning visuals, and compelling narrative, Masters of the Air soars above many contemporary war dramas.
