The Aviator (2004) Full Movie: A Biography of Howard Hughes
The Aviator is a 2004 biographical drama film directed by Martin Scorsese that portrays the life of Howard Hughes, a business magnate, investor, and aviator. The movie follows Hughes’ life from the late 1920s to the mid-1940s, highlighting his successes and struggles in the aviation and film industries, as well as his personal life.
Howard Hughes’ Birth and Early Life
Howard Hughes was born on December 24, 1905, in Houston, Texas. He was the only child of Howard Robard Hughes Sr., a successful businessman, and Allene Stone Gano, a socialite. Hughes’ parents divorced when he was a child, and he was raised by his mother. Hughes showed an early interest in engineering and aviation, and he attended the California Institute of Technology to study aeronautical engineering. However, he dropped out of college to focus on his business ventures.
Howard Hughes’ Wife and Personal Life
Howard Hughes was married twice in his life. His first marriage was to Ella Rice, a socialite, in 1925. However, the marriage was short-lived, and they divorced in 1929. Hughes’ second marriage was to Jean Peters, an actress, in 1957. They remained married until Hughes’ death in 1976. Hughes was known for his numerous romantic relationships with actresses and other women, including Katharine Hepburn and Ava Gardner.
Howard Hughes’ Movies
Howard Hughes was also involved in the film industry, and he produced and directed several movies. Some of his notable productions include Hell’s Angels, a World War I epic, and The Outlaw, a Western film that was controversial for its sexual content. However, Hughes’ involvement in the film industry was marred by his eccentric behavior and his battles with censorship boards.
Howard Hughes’ End of Life
Howard Hughes’ later years were marked by his declining health and his increasing isolation. He suffered from obsessive-compulsive disorder and became a recluse, living in hotels and avoiding contact with the outside world. Hughes’ death on April 5, 1976, was attributed to kidney failure, but his exact cause of death remains a mystery. His last picture, taken by a private investigator hired by his estate, shows a frail and emaciated Hughes in his bed.
The Legacy of Howard Hughes
Despite his eccentricities and controversies, Howard Hughes left a lasting legacy in the aviation and business industries. He was a pioneer in aviation, setting several speed and distance records and developing innovative aircraft designs. He also founded the Hughes Aircraft Company, which became a leading defense contractor. Hughes’ life and legacy have been the subject of numerous books, documentaries, and movies, including The Aviator, which won several Academy Awards for its portrayal of his life.
