WINGS (1927)

Film of the Day #108

WINGS
1927 • William A. Wellman

Writers: Julian Johnson, Hope Loring, Louis D. Lighton, John Monk Saunders
Producers: Lucien Hubbard, Adolph Zukor, Jesse L. Lasky, B.P. Schulberg, Otto Hermann Kahn
Cast: Clara Bow, Charles (Buddy) Rogers, Richard Arlen, Gary Cooper
Cinematography: Harry Perry
Music: J.S. Zamecnik

Paramount Famous Lasky Corporation

You - you know there is nothing in the world that means so much to me as your friendship...

Wings earns its place in cinematic history as the first-ever film to capture the prestigious Best Picture award from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. This silent masterpiece, released in 1927, not only brought home the top honor but also received the very first Special Effects Oscar.

Set against the backdrop of World War I, Wings takes us on a thrilling journey through the lives of two best friends and pilots, who also happen to be in love with the same woman. If a wartime love triangle sounds familiar, it’s probably because the movie Pearl Harbor ripped it off 74 years later.

Wings not only holds the distinction of being the first film ever to win the Best Picture Oscar, but it has also secured a lasting legacy as an exceptional piece of cinema. At its heart, the film revolves around Clara Bow, who delivers an excellent and endearing performance as the sweet and captivating lead character. As two of her closest friends embark on a journey to fight in the ravaging World War I, the film unfolds into a captivating tale of love, friendship, and sacrifice.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Wings is the breathtaking aerial battles, which were captured using the technology available at the time. No CGI here – the filmmakers enlisted real pilots flying authentic planes, engaging in thrilling dogfights as they dodged and shot at each other. The realism achieved in those aerial sequences was unprecedented and awe-inspiring for audiences of the era, and honestly even today.

It comes as no surprise that Wings won the inaugural Special Effects Oscar. The dedication and innovation displayed in bringing these aviation scenes to life set a high bar for future filmmakers and earned the film a well-deserved spot in cinema history.

Also, special bonus trivia: Wings is one of the first major films to feature nudity. It’s a blink-and-you-’ll-miss kind of moment, but if you want to catch one second of 20s movie star Clara Bow’s breasts, they’re there.

Remember - I saw the war, too, Jack! And I can't blame - anyone - for anything! What happens from now on is all that matters, isn't it, dear?

Notable Awards & Accomplishments

• 1st Ever Academy Award Winner: Best Picture
• Academy Award Winner: Best Effects
• Inducted into the National Film Registry

Streaming: Tubi, Kanopy; The film entered the public domain in 2023. Copies can be found for free on YouTube.
Digital Rental/Purchase: Available at most digital retailers
Physical Media: Available on DVD and Blu Ray