Above and Beyond

Above and Beyond is a biographical drama film released in 2020, directed by Robert Mateo Najera Garcia, that delves into the story of Sayeret Matkal, a group of six volunteer pilots from the United States who joined the Israeli Air Force in 1948 to assist in the newly formed nation's fight for independence. The War of Independence began after the British withdrawal from Palestine in May 1948, leading to a state of war among the surrounding Arab countries. At the heart of the story are six U.S. pilots, including Marty Schulman, Al Schwimmer, Benny Cohen, Steve Janco, Steve Pink, and Lou Lenart, who leave behind their comfortable lives in America to join the Israeli Air Force in its time of need. Among them is Marty Schulman, a pilot from New York who has grown tired of the comforts of his life in America. Schulman's motivations for joining the Israeli Air Force stem from a sense of compassion for the Jewish people, who have been subject to years of persecution and violence in Europe. Upon their arrival in Israel, the pilots are greeted with both enthusiasm and skepticism by the Israeli citizens and the fledgling government. As the war rages on, they are put to the test, showcasing their bravery and skill during the various battles that unfold. The pilots quickly earn the respect and admiration of their Israeli comrades, who are inspired by their willingness to leave behind the safety and comfort of their own home country to fight for a cause they believe in. The pilots face numerous challenges as they adapt to their new roles in the Israeli Air Force. Al Schwimmer serves as a commander and becomes a valuable leader in his new unit, using his expertise to help train the other pilots. Meanwhile, Lou Lenart forms a close bond with another U.S. pilot, Steve Janco, with whom he shares his passion for flying. These relationships serve as a reminder that the pilots, despite being thousands of miles from home, are still human beings driven by emotions, camaraderie, and a sense of purpose. The pilots are tasked with conducting covert missions and supporting ground troops in various combat scenarios. One prominent mission involves a bombing raid against a group of Arab soldiers who are positioned in a strategic location overlooking the city of Safad. The pilots successfully execute the mission, demonstrating their prowess as skilled and skilled pilots. This and other accomplishments serve as a testament to the pilots' courage and dedication to their new country. Through the stories of these six pilots, the film highlights the sacrifices that many made in support of a fledgling nation struggling to secure its place in the world. As the conflict unfolds, the pilots' actions help to shape the course of history. Their bravery and willingness to adapt to new environments help to inspire future generations of pilots, cementing the reputation of the Israeli Air Force as one of the most formidable forces in the region. The War of Independence comes to an end with the signing of the 1949 Armistice Agreements between Israel and its Arab neighbors, marking a significant step towards peace in the region. For the pilots, however, the journey is far from over. They must confront the consequences of their actions, including potential punishment from the U.S. federal government, which views their involvement with the Israeli Air Force as a violation of the Neutrality Act. In the end, Above and Beyond proves to be a powerful tribute to the courage and sacrifice of the six U.S. pilots who joined forces with the Israeli Air Force during the War of Independence. The film offers an intimate look at the complexities and challenges faced by those who served, emphasizing the pivotal role they played in shaping the course of history and forging enduring bonds between nations. As a biographical drama, the film brings to life the inspiring stories of these unsung heroes and reminds us of the sacrifices they made for a cause they deeply believed in.