Blackhawk: Fearless Champion of Freedom (1952) | Directed by Spencer Gordon Bennet & Fred F. Sears

"Blackhawk: Fearless Champion of Freedom" is a 1952 American 15-chapter serial film produced by Columbia Pictures. It is based on the "Blackhawk" comic book series, which debuted in 1941. The story follows a squadron of seven pilots, known as the Blackhawks, who originally banded together during World War II to combat the Nazis. After the war, they continue their mission to fight evil worldwide. In this serial, they confront a group of spies and saboteurs intent on destroying democracy, thwarting a succession of plots, each culminating in a cliffhanger.

The film was directed by Spencer Gordon Bennet and Fred F. Sears. The main cast includes Kirk Alyn as Blackhawk, Carol Forman as Laska, John Crawford as Chuck, Michael Fox as Mr. Case, Don C. Harvey as Olaf, Rick Vallin as Stan/Boris, Larry Stewart as Andre, and Weaver Levy as Chop-Chop. Kirk Alyn was well known for his previous role as Superman, and Carol Forman was recognized for her recurring roles as a villain in serials.

Upon its release, the serial was part of the waning years of the format's popularity. It featured action-packed sequences typical of the genre but was criticized for its low-budget production. Despite its shortcomings, "Blackhawk" is notable as an adaptation of a popular comic book series and for its depiction of post-war heroism. It has since been made available on home media and remains of interest to fans of classic serial films and early comic book adaptations.