John Travolta recalls near-death experience in the sky

In a captivating turn of events during the London screening of the new Disney+ film, “The Shepherd,” iconic actor John Travolta graciously surrendered his seat as the star of the short film, already anticipating the culmination of a 30-year dream of adapting the narrative for the big screen.

The film, set against the backdrop of 1957, unfolds the harrowing tale of a young Royal Air Force pilot’s journey home for Christmas, marred by a perilous electrical failure in his plane. Navigational systems incapacitated and radio silence enveloping him, the pilot resigns himself to his fate until a benevolent stranger, piloting another plane, emerges through the darkness and fog, offering guidance to safety.

Derived from Frederick Forsyth’s 1975 novella, the screening witnesses the presence of the acclaimed author himself, alongside Travolta, who shares a personal connection to the story. Recounting a near-death experience while piloting a corporate jet over Washington DC, Travolta emphasizes the visceral resonance he felt while reading the novella, given the parallels with his own life-altering incident.

“I knew what it felt like to absolutely think you’re going to die,” Travolta confides, drawing parallels between his own despair and the poignant portrayal by actor Ben Radcliffe in the film. Reflecting on his own moment of crisis, he vividly recalls the chilling realization that he might not survive the ordeal. Yet, akin to the film’s narrative, a miraculous descent and a fortuitous sighting of familiar landmarks averted disaster, allowing for a successful landing.

Travolta’s serendipitous discovery of Forsyth’s book, featuring a Vampire jet akin to the one he had recently purchased, marked the inception of his deep connection to the narrative. Despite initially acquiring the rights, his hectic schedule post-“Pulp Fiction” led him to relinquish the project. Enter director Iain Softley, a fellow enthusiast of Forsyth’s work, who rekindled Travolta’s passion and steered the film to fruition.

While Travolta initially envisioned portraying the youthful pilot, the passage of three decades sees him embracing the role of the seasoned guide. “I was young enough then that I could’ve played that part,” he jests, highlighting the unique journey that led him to become “The Shepherd.”

The film, predominantly shot in the UK, marks a significant moment for Travolta, who had engaged with fans in Norfolk during its production. The London screening, though delayed due to overcrowding, provides the audience with the inaugural experience of witnessing the narrative unfold on the silver screen.

Clocking in at a concise 38 minutes, “The Shepherd” is poised to grace Disney+ in December, offering a family-friendly narrative perfectly suited for holiday consumption. The star-studded cast, including Millie Kent, Simon Wilson, and Steven Mackintosh, coupled with the esteemed producer Alfonso Cuarón, promises a cinematic spectacle.

Softley, reflecting on the enduring appeal of “The Shepherd,” emphasizes its ability to provoke contemplation about the meaning of home and the intrinsic values it embodies. Beyond the familial theme, the narrative delves into the sacred aspects found in various religions, emphasizing the act of guiding lost travelers home and the spirit of self-sacrifice—a poignant message, particularly resonant during the Christmas season.

In the confluence of Travolta’s personal journey, Forsyth’s literary genius, and Softley’s directorial vision, “The Shepherd” emerges as a tale that transcends time, offering a captivating exploration of home, humanity, and the indomitable spirit of selflessness.