Despite a promising start, Hollywood didn't know how to handle Roy Scheider's career. His excellent work in Jaws was capped off too early with an edgy turn as a hitman in Cohen and Tate. Around 1983, director John Badham assigned him to a chopper called Blue Thunder. As a work of fiction, it's enjoyable stuff escalating in a daring showdown. The only weakness lies in the central conflict.

Officer Frank Murphy (Scheider) conducts helicopter surveillance over Los Angeles. His Vietnam experience plays havoc with his mental state, resulting in vivid flashbacks while on duty. Ultimately, an encounter with Colonel Cochrane (Malcolm McDowell), his nemesis from the war, makes matters more intense.

Badham's film could widen its gaze, yet that's secondary to escapism because the chopper carries the load. Blue Thunder can spy on individuals, while hovering in "whisper mode." This reduces propeller noise to a barely audible hiss. Other features include thermal imaging (useful for mobile intelligence gathering) and access to every known digital database.

At heart, Blue Thunder could be more dramatic in terms of the conspiracy angle. However, this well-made roller-coaster hums with electricity. 

In addition, Ride with the Angels: Making Blue Thunder reveals some fascinating anecdotes. The documentary covers all areas of the production, including Frank Morriss and Edward M. Abroms' Oscar nominated editing. (Capsule review)

(Released by Columbia Pictures and rated "R" by MPAA.)