Reviews

Nothing could be more straightforward than this story-line : a pilot - alone in the aircraft - is unable to land it. Yet the director and cast not only build up the suspense, but they also present to the audience, through the opinions of those on the ground, conflicting interpretations of what is going on in the pilot's mind. The result is that the simple story-line is seen to contain moral dilemmas which have no simple solution.

As a study of the frailties of human nature in the context of old age, this film is without parallel. It is, quite simply, brilliant. Full marks to everyone - from the scriptwriter to all involved in the finished product. You can only marvel at the perceptions inherent in the characterisation of the two ageing performers.

The play is cleverly constructed - begin with the porter, Rainbow - & let the audience see the background unfold through his eyes. The film follows the play with great faithfulness, working, no doubt, on the simple premise that it couldn't be bettered. Now throw in a host of superb character actors - & the result is a resounding triumph.A definite must-see.

A truly magnificent story - & certainly in no need of elaboration.(Read the book & you find it wasn't Guy Gibson who thought of placing spotlights under the planes - so why centre this notion on him? It wasn't necessary to do so.) Isn't there a strong similarity between the Dam Busters theme & "I'll never stop loving you" from "Love Me OR Leave Me". In his autobiography, Sammy Cahn, who wrote the "I'll Never Stop" lyrics, doesn't comment on the uncanny resemblance - but it really is remarkable.

A film which is not only a wonderful comedy but one which amplified & interpreted my own experience. What I mean is: I was much taken by the theological points put into the mouth of God by the scriptwriters. I found myself thinking "what God is saying adds up for me. It's the kind of God I want to believe in".

The cinema seemed to be full of them - young men who had been through national service. And how they recognised the archetypal characters portrayed on the screen. Time & time again dialogue was missed as the audience broke into uproarious laughter. The scene, in particular, where the 3 "squaddies" complete the necessary formalities on the day of enlistment is a comic gem. .I would like to say, "not to be missed" - but since I have never seen the film down to be on any T.V. channel, the chances of any of us catching it are not good.