Entertainment : In Depth: 'Flight' brings Washington back to Palace screen

True Story: Several years ago Gerald and I boarded a small prop plane and were then told by the flight attendant over the loud speaker that take off would be temporarily delayed because there was an issue with the plane. The pilot believed the problem would be quickly corrected and we would then be on our way. A short while later the pilot appeared at the front of the plane, holding a roll of duct tape. He spoke briefly with the flight attendant, and she announced that the pilot had taken care of the problem. As we taxied down the runway, Gerald and I looked at each other quizzically, shrugged, half laughed, sat back, and enjoyed the ride. We landed safely in Chicago in plenty of time to make our next connection. We still wonder about that duct tape.

“Flight” opens Friday, December 14 through Thursday, December 20 at 7 p.m. every night and at 2 p.m. on Monday. Rated R and running 138 minutes, this action adventure features a very scary airplane scene, drugs, language, sex and nudity.

Denzel Washington is the pilot who likes to overindulge, but manages miraculously to safely land an ailing aircraft. The tale of his previous night’s escapades is told, and Washington’s character, Whip Whitaker, quickly goes from hero to zero.

Denzel doesn’t disappoint. However, if you are unable to sit back and enjoy the ride, you might think twice about this film, or wait out the first few minutes in the lobby or bathroom.

Gerald and I also flew to Europe in 1986 when the Lebanese bombings were happening in Paris. Tickets were cheap! As my brother, John, who was studying in Spain at the time, wrote (we had no email or cell phones in those days) – “Dude, you’ll be fine. If you’re that unlucky, you deserve it!” The three of us had some interesting adventures, to say the least. I’m pleased to report that the flight was not one of them, and John’s words of wisdom are often quoted to this day.

Ladies and Gentlemen, fasten your seat belts. And, please, try not to spill your popcorn!

LAST MINUTE SHOPPERS – Palace Bucks and Posters make great gifts. Palace Bucks may be purchased at the theatre anytime after 5 pm, or from Nathan at the Vinton Unlimited Office in the City Hall during the day. As for posters, ask if we have your favorite and make me an offer. I’d probably just give you one if you stayed after the movie and vacuumed! We have a huge surplus and need to clear some room on the poster shelves.