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“On a Wing and a Prayer” Movie Review
This inspiring true story deserves a great film. Instead, it got only an above average one.
I wanted to love On a Wing and a Prayer. And I want to write a glowing review of it. I want to praise everyone who had any part of this film. And…
If you watch it with the following disclaimer in mind…
“Be advised that this is an independent faith-based film made with a budget that is below Hollywood blockbuster standards”
…then you can justifiably call it a “great” movie.
Without that disclaimer, though, you’re left with a movie that’s only slightly above average. Yes, it’s serviceable. It’s got some enjoyable parts to it. And it hits you in the “feels” (albeit sometimes a little too much so — more on this later).
I’m glad the movie was made. We need more feel-good movies like this. I’m glad I saw it. And, if you like heartwarming, feel-good dramas, I think you should see it too. Just keep your expectations in check.
Remember that disclaimer and you’ll be fine.
On a Wing and a Prayer dramatizes the incredible true story of a passenger’s emergency landing of a twin-engine turbo prop plane after the pilot died.
That passenger was Doug White (played in this movie by Dennis Quaid). On board the plane were his wife (played by Heather Graham) and two daughters.
The White family were returning home after a funeral. A family friend, Joe Cabuk, gave up his Easter holiday to ferry them home. Unfortunately, shortly after liftoff, Joe suffered a fatal cardiac episode. Doug White, sitting the co-pilot’s seat, found himself responsible for the lives of his family. He had limited flight experience — and zero experience with the type of aircraft they were in: a King Air 200.
The movie follows the basic sequence of events that follow, although it takes some liberties (as is typical for films). But its earnest efforts to take filmgoers for a suspense-laden thrill ride, all while underscoring the strong faith…
