Sky Patrol (1939): cast, story & where to watch

Released in 1939, Sky Patrol is an action, drama and adventure film directed by Howard Bretherton, running about 61 minutes. “WINGS OF DEATH! Across danger-streaked skies roars Tailspin Tommy's air patrol in pursuit of death-dealing smugglers! His most-thrilling air-venture!” — that tagline sets the tone.

What it’s about. "Tailspin Tommy" Tompkins and "Skeeter" Milligan are training young U. S. Army fliers for the newly-formed 'Sky Patrol,'a branch of the Army Reserves which operates along the borders and coast-lines, on the lookout for smugglers. Carter Meade, whose father is the Colonel in charge of the patrol, has a terror of firing guns and his father insists he conquer this fear. Tommy sends him out on patrol, on orders from Washington D. C., to stop any unfamiliar aircraft. Carter challenges an unmarked amphibian plane, which opens fire on him. Carter, afraid to shoot, bails out as his plane is shot down. Carter is missing, and Tommy and Skeeter are searching for him and the mysterious airplane.

Who’s in it. Sky Patrol stars John Trent as Tailspin Tommy Tompkins, Marjorie Reynolds as Betty Lou Barnes, Milburn Stone as Skeeter Milligan and Jason Robards Sr. as Paul Smith - Three Points Airfield Owner, among others.

Where to watch. In US you can rent or buy it from Amazon Video. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Sky Patrol page.

If you liked it. Fans of Sky Patrol tend to enjoy The Dark Knight, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, Inception and The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring.