This 3-D IMAX film tells the story of the early pioneering days of airplanes used to deliver mail over the Andes and remote regions of South America. Since IMAX movies are limited to about 45 minutes because of the huge size of the reels, plot and character development tend not to be the reason you see them. What the filmmaker looks for is an interesting topic that when shown on a super sized screen, in a large film format, delivers a visual and/or strong emotional impact. This allows the viewer to have an experience much like an extended ride in an amusement park.

In "Wings of Courage," Henri (Craig Sheffer) is the pilot who flies over the Andes Cordillera mountain range, where the peaks reach 21,000 feet, and if you crash you can count on not being found. With good weather the plane will blend into the terrain and with bad, even a large plane would soon look like another small hill melting into the mountain. Henri's wife Noelle (Elizabeth McGovern) is the lovely bride who never gives up on her husband when he is reported missing.

Flying a damaged plane because "the mail is more important than life," Henri crash lands on a frozen lake and must traverse six passes that go as high as 12,000 feet.

Never fear that Henri will make it as his love for Noelle and his devotion to getting the mail through keep his spirit alive. Although the story is a little corny and the acting hammy (especially by Val Kilmer), "Wings of Courage" is an enjoyable film because of the scenery and the effects of 3-D. It seems as if you can step onto the dance floor as dancers tango by in one scene. The magic that you feel when looking through those old 3-D View Masters, is heightened with this moving picture process.

Based upon a true story, this yarn of pioneer aviation also comes with a teacher's resource guide. Seeing this film makes for a good family or group outing.