Dawn Patrol (film)

Dawn Patrol can refer to multiple films, each sharing a common theme of early morning patrols, particularly in the context of aerial combat during wartime. Two notable films share this title:

• Dawn Patrol (1930): A pre-Code war film directed by Howard Hawks, starring Richard Barthelmess and Douglas Fairbanks Jr. Set during World War I, the film depicts the psychological toll on fighter pilots and their commanding officer due to the high casualty rate among young aviators ordered on dangerous missions. It is known for its groundbreaking aerial combat sequences and realistic portrayal of the horrors of war.

• Dawn Patrol (1938): A remake of the 1930 film, directed by Edmund Goulding and starring Errol Flynn, Basil Rathbone, and David Niven. While following the same basic plot as the original, this version benefits from improved aerial photography and sound technology. It's considered a classic of the Golden Age of Hollywood war films and further cemented the reputation of Errol Flynn as an action star.

Both films revolve around similar narratives concerning the pressures faced by squadron leaders who must send young pilots to their deaths in early morning reconnaissance and combat missions. The shared title and storyline mean the films are often compared and contrasted in discussions of war cinema and aviation history.