Devotion Movie Review

I recently had the pleasure of seeing the Movie Devotion.

Devotion, an aerial war epic based on the bestselling book of the same name, tells the inspirational true story of two elite US Navy fighter pilots who helped turn the tide in the most brutal battle in the Korean War: Jesse Brown (Johnathan Majors), the first Black aviator in Navy history and his fellow fighter pilot and friend, Tom Hudner (Glen Powell). Their heroic sacrifices and enduring friendship would ultimately make them the Navy’s most celebrated wingmen. 

This film was filled with brilliant acting and cinematic elements. One of the most notable aspects being the film used real fighter planes. This film takes place in 1950 and tells the true story of heroin Jesse Brown. Devotion is a true cinematic display of history and Black excellence. I had never heard of Brown before this film; I was deeply moved by his story and the impact of his contribution to the navy during the Korean War.

Hudner and Brown’s friendship blossomed over time. Hudner not only stood with Brown but also stood up for him when Brown was being taunted. In the film, Brown insists on taking the high road during the conflict. He knew any negative marks on his record could prevent him from flying. Ultimately, Brown and Hudner learned a lot from one another and formed a special bond.

Brown faced many obstacles to becoming a Navy fighter pilot. His passion for flying kept him going when he faced a great deal of hatred and racist taunts from other sailors. During the film, Majors delivers an emotional performance of Brown. Majors brought very intimate and painful scenes of Brown’s story to life.

Hudner and Brown’s friendship blossomed over time. Hudner not only stood with Brown but also stood up for him when Brown was being taunted. In the film, Brown insists on taking the high road during the conflict. He knew any negative marks on his record could prevent him from flying.

At the end of this film, there wasn’t a dry eye in the room. This was a story of triumph and devotion and a film about friendship, endurance, and working as a team. I was moved by the way Brown fought for his country and paved the way for other African-American fighter pilots.

This movie is a MUST SEE this holiday season.

Directed by: JD Dillard. Written by: Jake Crane & Jonathan A. H. Stewart. Based on the book by: Adam Makos. Produced by: Molly Smith, Rachel Smith, Thad Luckinbill, Trent Luckinbill. Executive Producers: JD Dillard, Glen Powell, Robert Simonds, Adam Fogelson, John Friedberg. Cast: Jonathan Majors, Glen Powell, Christina Jackson, Thomas Sadoski, and Joe Jonas.