Birds of Prey (1973 film)

Birds of Prey is a 1973 American made-for-television action thriller film directed by William A. Graham and starring David Janssen, Ralph Meeker, and Elayne Heilveil. The film centers on helicopter pilot Harry Walker (Janssen) as he attempts to stop a kidnapper, Arthur Reems (Meeker), who is using a light aircraft to terrorize the public and demand ransom.

The film is notable for its extensive aerial sequences, featuring helicopters and airplanes, and its depiction of law enforcement utilizing emerging technologies of the time. It was originally broadcast as a CBS Movie of the Week. The plot involves Reems kidnapping a wealthy woman and threatening to drop her from his plane unless his demands are met. Walker, a Vietnam War veteran and skilled pilot, is hired to track down Reems and prevent the ransom from being paid. The story unfolds with escalating tension as Walker uses his helicopter, equipped with specialized tracking equipment, to pursue Reems across the desert landscape. Ultimately, the film culminates in a showdown between the two pilots.