Behind the adrenaline-pumping scenes of the 2017 film American Made, a devastating tragedy unfolded that still haunts the world of cinema. While Tom Cruise’s portrayal of daring pilot Barry Seal captivated audiences, the production faced a grim reality that claimed lives, left families broken, and sparked questions about safety in the film industry.
A Devastating Accident in Colombia
The crash occurred in September 2015 during filming in Colombia. Three seasoned pilots—Andrew Purwin, Jimmy Lee Garland, and Carlos Berl—were tasked with flying a twin-engine Aerostar 600 as part of the movie’s aerial sequences. Tragically, the plane crashed in treacherous weather conditions, killing Purwin and Berl while leaving Garland with severe injuries.
What makes this tragedy even more heart-wrenching is that these pilots were no strangers to high-risk aviation. Yet, this time, even their expertise couldn’t avert disaster.
Concerns That Went Unheard
Before the fateful flight, Carlos Berl had reportedly voiced concerns about the safety of the Aerostar 600. As an experienced pilot, he was unaccustomed to this particular aircraft and wary of its limitations. Jimmy Lee Garland, who doubled as a pilot-mechanic and occasionally stood in for Tom Cruise, shared similar unease about the rushed schedule and unpredictable weather conditions.
Andrew Purwin, known for his bold flying style and prior incidents, also faced scrutiny. Despite his experience, some questioned whether his high-risk approach to aviation may have contributed to the tragedy.
The Pressure of Hollywood’s High Stakes
Production timelines often prioritize speed and spectacle, and this was no exception. According to lawsuits filed by the victims’ families, the pilots faced immense pressure to complete the shoot, even as weather conditions deteriorated. The legal claims alleged coerced air travel, compromised aircraft safety, and improperly certified documentation.
The lawsuits painted a picture of negligence, arguing that the need for cinematic perfection overshadowed basic safety precautions. The allegations led to settlements in 2019 for undisclosed amounts, but the scars left by the accident remain unhealed for the families and those involved in the production.
A History of Risk in Aerial Filming
This was not the first time a film starring Tom Cruise faced peril in the skies. During the production of Top Gun in 1985, similar risks emerged, underscoring the inherent dangers of aviation stunts in Hollywood.
While American Made delivered gripping aerial sequences, it also serves as a stark reminder of the fine line between cinematic brilliance and real-life tragedy. The sacrifices made by Purwin, Berl, and Garland are etched into the film’s legacy, raising awareness about the need for stricter safety protocols in the industry.
A Sobering Reflection on the Industry
Even as American Made continues to stream and enthrall audiences, the story behind its creation casts a shadow over its success. The tragic crash has sparked important conversations about aviation safety in film production, leading to tighter regulations and improved oversight in the years since.
This incident reminds us that the breathtaking moments we see on screen often come at a heavy cost. As audiences, we are left to reflect not only on the art of storytelling but also on the lives risked to bring these stories to life.
In memory of Andrew Purwin, Carlos Berl, and all those who lost their lives while pushing the boundaries of cinematic achievement, we owe it to their legacy to demand safer practices and ensure such tragedies never repeat.
