Lafayette Escadrille (1958)

Born into Bostonian blue blood, Thad Walker (Tab Hunter) is a young man in constant conflict with his stern father. His rebellious streak and lack of discipline land him in trouble repeatedly, culminating in a physical confrontation with his father. Deciding to leave his privileged life behind, Thad impulsively sets sail with other American volunteers, bound for the brutal front lines of World War I. Despite America not officially being at war, Thad enlists with the French Legion, joining the ranks of the Lafayette Escadrille as a fighter pilot in training. His natural aptitude for flying shines through, yet his rebellious temperament hinders his progress. After a heated clash with a French officer, Thad finds himself on the brink of a court-martial and a potential decade-long prison sentence. Desperate and demoralized, Thad deserts his post and takes refuge in the romantic city of Paris. His heart is stolen by the enchanting French belle, Renée Beaulieu (Etchika Choureau), and they quickly become inseparable, unofficially wedding and residing in her quaint hotel room. However, the looming shadow of the French Police keeps Thad confined indoors, his freedom curtailed by the constant threat of arrest. As Thad struggles to find work and stay hidden, his comrades from Lafayette Escadrille complete their training and prepare for battle. When America finally declares war, Paris is flooded with American officers, one of whom, a U.S. General (Paul Fix), crosses paths with Thad in a cab. In a desperate plea for redemption, Thad convinces the General to pull strings to recruit him into the newly formed United States Army Air Service, despite his status as a deserter. Thad's second chance sees him soaring through the skies once more, facing fierce frontline combat against German fighters, while his wife anxiously awaits his return in Paris, uncertain of his fate. The film beautifully intertwines Thad's tale of redemption and the blossoming love story, all set against the backdrop of a world at war.

Lafayette Escadrille is a drama movie featuring Tab Hunter.

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