Maury Dexter, who went on to direct LITTLE HOUSE ON THE PRAIRIE and HIGHWAY TO HEAVEN, began his career with Lippert Productions and cranked out many exciting B films. AIR PATROL is one of them, a film all about aerial cops who fly around Los Angeles, attempting to nail the bad guys.
A famous painting, worth a fortune, is the center of attention here where some real nasties are out to get their hands on it. Lots of familiar faces in this one, but at the top is veteran Douglas Dumbrille, at his crafty best. There's a terrific scene where he meets a "colleague" and pushes him off a 10 story building --just for starters.
This is really a great film, campy and fun as you watch the cops vs. The robbers and some excellent aerial footage of helicopters, especially a car chase as they hover over Dumbrille's station wagon as he makes his getaway. A big thank you to FXM retro channel for re-running this little gem of late, and perfect viewing for late night weekends. Some great shots of 60s Hollywood, especially the famous Hollywood Bowl, eerily empty and very quiet.
Dexter would next go on to direct the cult classic THE DAY MARS INVADED EARTH. These two films make a fantastic back to back feature. You have to shop around as this may be on a private label dvd.
