When it comes to facing the harsh realities of war - This b&w, 1938 production actually kept me quite interested, for the most part.

"Dawn Patrol" focused its story in on the often-frustrating day-to-day duties of British aviators during WW1. And, believe me - This was not a glamourous picture at all.

Even though this film is now 80 years old - It still held up quite well and delivered a fairly entertaining story-line, which also included some pretty decent "in-the-air" battle scenes.

And, so - As this grim story of "guts & glory" goes - At first it was all "fight, drink, and be merry" with these happy-go-lucky, British flyboys serving in France during WW1.

But - When the brutal reality of war (of relentless dogfights, flying inferior aircraft, and inexperienced recruits joining the 59th Squadron) finally sank in - Our brave boys of Britain were suddenly singing a more sobering tune. Indeed.

Now 80 years old - This 1938, b&w production from Warner Bros. certainly drove home the point that war (no matter from whose perspective) was no laughing matter.

Featuring a strong, competent, all-male cast of players, including Basil Rathbone and Errol Flynn - Dawn Patrol's battle scenes (though creaky by today's standards) didn't disappoint me at all.

May the Dawn Patrol be remembered as one of the first films to ask if war is worth all human loss that comes with it. Errol Flynn and David Niven play World War I flying aces, who love the combat and the thrill of victory. They can't conceive of being shot down. Only problem is the planes were out of date and had many shortcomings. To see Flynn and Niven in the air combat missions is thrilling action. I loved the movie and hope this Five Star Classic will be seen by generations to come!