As stated in the film, Manfred has always regarded flying an aircraft as a sport, not a life-or-death fight, not revenge. He advocated that what should be done in air combat is to shoot down the enemy plane and click until it reaches it, instead of chasing the enemy plane and attacking like his younger brother, preventing the opponent from landing until the pilot is killed. Coupled with his extraordinary aerial combat ability, he earned the respect and affection of both enemies and friends. In an era where shooting down eight enemy planes could be called an ace, the 25-year-old Manfred shot down a total of 80 enemy planes in his lifetime. In the film, Manfred loves French cigarettes and wears a scarf in the color of the French flag. Except for flying and special occasions, he never wears a military uniform, only a sweater and a military cap. In him, there is no wartime tension and hatred, nor the shadow of politics. This is the style of the classical European knight, which is an integral part of his legend. War films like this usually end with a life-and-death battle. This is a very common Hollywood routine, but this film does not make the audience wait for such a battle. The protagonist bids farewell to his lover and goes to the battlefield for the last time. It's the monologue in front of the heroine's cemetery. The climax of the whole film is that a line replaces the action scene. Manfred rides a horse, chases his lover, and tells the reason for his return to the battlefield next to a plane. From the beautiful dream of his childhood, his amazing talent, he gradually became clear about the cruel nature of war, until he faced the reality of war with extraordinary courage, and at the same time expressed his love again. The emperor felt that he was too precious and did not want to risk the life of an idol, and he did not want him to return to the battlefield. He hoped that Manfred would continue to work as a commander and continue to write an undefeated legend. However, Manfred still refused. He didn't want to give up the dream of flying, he didn't want to be a tool to boost morale, and he didn't want to command his companions to die. He would rather bear the death himself. His final battle was a quest for death, and he wanted to break his myth.
The soundtrack of the film is really wonderful, especially the battle at the opening funeral, which is a classic.
Whether they use swords, planes, or pen and paper as weapons, there are always some of them who put grace and dignity above victory. I always hold incomparable respect for these heroes who are still honored despite defeat.
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