Harrison Ford's turn as President James Marshall in 1997's Air Force One presents a considerably more farfetched scenario than his archaeologist or space smuggler roles: an American president one would trust with their life. The film, essentially a "Die Hard" premise with the President of the United States in the John McClane role, delivers a thrilling and implausible good time, with Ford's charisma selling every action beat.
Nearly three decades after its release, Air Force One has landed on Netflix as of November 1, remaining a defining action thriller of the 1990s. The movie arrived during a period where presidential portrayals in film were often idealized, and it leans into this with Marshall, a principled yet tough commander-in-chief. Ford's portrayal imbues the character with a sense of unwavering dedication to his country and family, further solidified by his veteran status and Medal of Honor recipient background.
A Presidential Hero Made Believable
Released in a summer crowded with blockbusters, Air Force One followed in the wake of films like Independence Day, which also featured a president rising to a monumental challenge. However, Air Force One distinguishes itself by focusing on an idealized POTUS who is both competent and compassionate. Marshall's character is presented as a man of integrity, refusing to abandon the plane while his family remains captive, a decision that underscores his principled nature.
The film's success is largely attributed to a strong script by Andrew W. Marlowe and Wolfgang Petersen's direction, combined with Ford's signature blend of charm and gravitas. Ford's performance establishes Marshall as a figure of immediate competence, adeptly handling both diplomatic and combative situations. His interactions with his crew, daughter, and wife on board Air Force One before the hijacking establish him as a relatable and admirable figure, making his subsequent actions all the more compelling.
Ford's casting tapped into his established persona as a reluctant hero, a role he had perfected over years as Han Solo, Indiana Jones, and Jack Ryan. Air Force One asked audiences to accept him as the leader of the free world, a role he embodies with believable authority. The film's production even received a tour of the actual Air Force One from President Bill Clinton, who reportedly became a fan of the movie.
Gary Oldman's portrayal of the Russian ultranationalist Ivan Korshunov serves as a chilling counterpoint to Ford's composed president. Korshunov, a disciplined soldier and zealot, provides a formidable antagonist. The film's claustrophobic setting aboard Air Force One enhances the tension, drawing parallels to Die Hard by transforming the aircraft into a dynamic, confined battleground.
The Enduring Appeal of a Straightforward Hero
In contrast to many modern action films that explore moral ambiguity and character deconstruction, Air Force One champions the appeal of a straightforward hero. The movie offers an uncomplicated narrative: a perfect father, husband, and president confronting terrorists. Its adherence to classic action tropes, including a memorable line like "Get off my plane!" delivered with Ford's characteristic intensity, contributes to its enduring entertainment value.
Air Force One is now available to stream on Netflix.