Tailspin Tommy (serial)

Tailspin Tommy was a 1934 American aviation-themed adventure film serial produced by Universal Pictures. Based on the popular comic strip of the same name created by Hal Forrest, the serial follows the exploits of young aviator Tommy Tompkins, nicknamed "Tailspin Tommy," and his sidekick, Skeeter Milligan, as they navigate dangerous aerial adventures and confront villains. The serial consisted of twelve chapters, each culminating in a cliffhanger designed to draw viewers back for the next installment. The plot typically involved Tommy and Skeeter thwarting the plans of various adversaries while demonstrating their skill and bravery as pilots. Tailspin Tommy proved to be a successful serial, capitalizing on the public's fascination with aviation during the Golden Age of Flight. It spawned a sequel serial in 1935 titled Tailspin Tommy in The Great Air Mystery. The character also appeared in other media, including a radio program and a series of Big Little Books.