Lafayette Escadrille (1958)

Synopsis: Maverick filmmaker William Wellman directs and bases this wartime romance on his experiences in World War I. The story is centered on a group of ace pilots, flying for France in the early years of the war, who encounter romance as well as combat. Still licking emotional wounds caused by his... Maverick filmmaker William Wellman directs and bases this wartime romance on his experiences in World War I. The story is centered on a group of ace pilots, flying for France in the early years of the war, who encounter romance as well as combat. Still licking emotional wounds caused by his father, American youth Thad Walker (Tab Hunter) leaves the States to join the Lafayette Escadrille. Though he meets exciting people and sees his share of combat, more importantly he dates a French girl, Renee (Etchika Choureau), who happens to be a prostitute. They fall in love, and, if they can each manage to put the past behind them, a better life seems guaranteed. In the original ending Thad and Renee realized they couldn't ignore their separate pasts, so he begged a superior officer to let him return to his elite flying squadron or face being court-marstialed. He was granted permission to fly again only to be shot down and killed just as the war was coming to an end. This version has a completely different outcome. Look for actor William Wellman Jr., who portrays Bill Wellman Sr., his father, the famed director. The film also features the wonderful triumvirate of Clint Eastwood, David Janssen, and Tom Laughlin (BILLY JACK). [More]