In 1940, the Germans are preparing under Goering’s leadership to invade Britain, but the RAF valiantly fight them in the air. One of Britain’s proudest moments is not given the proper treatment in this forgettable epic. It’s all about the planes and the air battles; an amazing number of old aircraft were used and those scenes are spectacular and engaging. But where’s the heart? The huge cast is unable to make an emotional connection with the audience. The visual effects are of mixed quality and the film goes on forever with little variation.
1969-Britain. 132 min. Color. Widescreen. Directed by Guy Hamilton. Book: Derek Wood, Derek Dempster (”The Narrow Margin”). Cinematography: Freddie Young. Cast: Harry Andrews (Sir Austin Stokes), Michael Caine (Canfield), Trevor Howard (Keith Park), Curd Jürgens, Kenneth More, Laurence Olivier… Christopher Plummer, Michael Redgrave, Ralph Richardson, Robert Shaw, Susannah York, Ian McShane, Edward Fox.
Trivia: Alec Guinness and Rex Harrison were allegedly considered for parts.
