Home > Movies > Turbulence

Turbulence

[1997, Movie]

Turbulence: Review

This early entry into what's shaping up as a full-blown disaster flick renaissance may at first seem little more than an updated AIRPORT 1975, in which a nearly hysterical flight attendant -- then the incomparable Karen Black, now perky Lauren Holly -- gets a crash course in flying a jumbo jet after the captain and copilot are killed. But director Robert Butler and screenwriter Jonathan Brett have stuffed the cargo hold to bursting with so many plot elements (there's even a bit of slasher-pic mayhem for extra thrills), that the result is surprisingly enjoyable. Holly is Teri, the hapless air hostess twinkie who, after an in-flight shoot-out, must not only pilot the suddenly depopulated 747, but also fend off the unwelcome advances of serial rapist/murderer Ryan (Ray Liotta), who came aboard in chains and figures that going down in a blaze of glory -- taking Teri and a nice chunk of LA with him -- is far preferable to recapture and certain execution. Oh, and did we mention that Teri's flying the plane in her underwear, and that the jet's headed straight for the mother of all electrical storms? It's all just as ludicrous as it sounds, but despite some annoying flight-simulating camera jerks and the film's jarringly obvious pro-death penalty bias, it's good dumb fun. Put your brain on autopilot, fasten your safety belt, and enjoy the flight. --Ken Fox