A beautiful Russian jet pilot, Anna Marladovna (Janet Leigh), defects to the United States and is assigned to the care of Colonel Jim Shannon (John Wayne). As their relationship deepens (or does it?), Shannon learns that Anna is a spy (or is she?), complicating their romance and creating a tense spy vs spy between the United States and the Soviet Union.
The film well characterizes the paranoia and mistrust of the Cold War era, all as a background to some pretty ridiculous '50s romantic comedy stylings. It's a mixed bag. Although the story is a little contrived, suspense and twists keep it interesting, all in glorious technicolor. Many of the mid century sets and costumes are incredible.
Howard Hughes's fingerprints are all over this film. "Jet Pilot" features impressive fighter jet flight sequences, showcasing the advanced aviation technology of the era. It's hard to believe they got some of the footage. In the end the film is to be appreciated for that historical significance, and the iconic performances of its leads. It is definitely one of John Wayne's best roles.
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