Classic Black Cinema Series: The Flying Ace

A World War I fighter pilot returns to his previous role as a railroad detective, where he must track down a satchel containing $25,000 in stolen payroll, find a missing employee, and apprehend the gang behind the theft.

The Flying Ace draws inspiration from Bessie Coleman, America’s first Black female pilot to earn a license. Filmmaker Richard Norman discussed creating an aviation film with her before her tragic death in an April 1926 crash during practice for an air show at Jacksonville’s Paxon Airfield (now the Paxon School for Advanced Studies). Norman modeled the character Ruth Sawtelle after Coleman and went on to produce and release the movie later that same year.

According to historians of World War II, The Flying Ace motivated many young boys who would eventually become Tuskegee Airmen to pursue aviation.

Don't miss the chance to experience this classic film in a vibrant and culturally rich atmosphere.

Ages 18 and older. For parking and directions, click/tap here.

Host or Publisher Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture