The much-anticipated Apple+ original miniseries, Masters of the Air, premiered on January 26, 2024, and has certainly made waves in the entertainment industry. Executive producers Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks, known for their previous World War II series, Band of Brothers, had set high expectations for this new project. However, just three episodes into the show's run, it has been met with both criticism and praise on social media.
Author and historian Mark Urban was one of the voices in support of the series, particularly highlighting the casting, plot, and battle scenes as respectful to history. But amidst the mixed reactions, many have criticized the show's reliance on computer-generated graphics, even going so far as to liken it to a video game. It seems that everyone can be a critic in this day and age, and their opinions are becoming increasingly vocal.
It's worth noting that the series focuses on the iconic Boeing B-17 bombers of World War II, but very few of these aircrafts still exist today, with only around 10 being airworthy. The tragic crash of a B-17 at a Texas airshow in November 2022 serves as a somber reminder of the dangers associated with flying vintage airplanes, even under controlled circumstances.
The use of CGI in television and film has the power to make the impossible seem real, but it seems that some viewers may be forgetting that movies and TV shows require a degree of suspension of disbelief. Dr. Daniel Haulman, a retired United States Air Force historian, explained that while he has no objection to the use of CGI to depict large bomber formations, it is the CGI itself that has come under scrutiny. He points out that accuracy in formation is more important than whether or not real aircraft were used.
Interestingly, the use of CGI in other series and movies seems to have attracted less scrutiny. It is possible that a vocal minority is responsible for the current controversy surrounding Masters of the Air. Nonetheless, the absence of specific criticisms from social media users raises the question of whether some critiques are rooted more in personal preferences than genuine technical flaws.
Military vehicle historian John Adams-Graf suggests that the series is intended for an audience that enjoys movies like Avatar or superhero films, where CGI is extensively utilized. He argues that the characters in Masters of the Air, although based on real heroes, do not possess superpowers or wear extravagant costumes. He believes that the combination of the romanticism of flight and the drama of combat make for compelling storytelling.
It is important to acknowledge that any story based on historical events will inevitably attract both positive and negative criticism. Even documentaries, which aim to provide factual information, can sometimes contain inaccuracies. Haulman cites the example of documentaries about the Tuskegee Airmen that falsely claimed they 'never lost a bomber' to enemy aircraft. In the pursuit of captivating storytelling, some liberties may be taken with historical accuracy.
Ultimately, Masters of the Air serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of stories centered on personal struggles during times of war. The fusion of flight's allure with the intensity of combat creates an enticing blend for audiences. While it is valid to express concerns about the historical accuracy of such portrayals, it is essential to approach them with a nuanced understanding of the nature of storytelling and the inevitable trade-offs made to enhance the narrative.
Criticism may always accompany any work centered on historical events, but it is worth remembering that these stories are ultimately meant to entertain and evoke emotion. As viewers, we have the power to appreciate the artistry and creativity that go into these productions while understanding the inherent limitations faced by filmmakers as they navigate the delicate balance between authenticity and engaging storytelling.
