adrian-43767
British cinema had its most distinguished period after WW2, notably between 1945 and 1970, during which time it produced masterpieces that ranged from comedies (KIND HEARTS AND CORONETS, other Ealing comedies; supernatural/psycho horrow films such as DEAD OF NIGHT, THE INNOCENTS; love stories like BRIEF ENCOUNTER; and war films like DAM BUSTERS, CRUEL SEA, COLDITZ STORY. BRIDGE ON THE RIVER KWAI, FIVE FINGERS, WE DIVE AT DAWN, GUNS OF NAVARONE, ABOVE US THE WAVES).I am fond of the latter. I first saw it on TV in Swaziland, Africa, and was promptly impressed by the British stiff upper lip, as portrayed by a fantastic cast that includes such solid actors as James Robertson Justice, John Mills, Donald Sinden, John Gregson, among others - including some four or five German-speaking actors, notably the Tirpitz commander, who are totally convincing.B&W photography is highly competent, but understandably limited because this was not a high budget film. Direction by Ralph Thomas is very tight and coherent, with scenes in the submarines particularly effective, highlighting all the potentially deadly hazards.Screenplay also a tad limited, but credible. Ending is an example of simplicity and effectiveness, with John Mills quietly but perceptibly bitterly, reflecting on his upcoming detention in a camp. Strongly recommended if you are interested in 1) British film making; 2) Solid acting; 3) WW2.
gary-444
I first saw this in the 1960's and revisited it some fifty years later.Of course it is of its time. It combines a story based on fact that is compelling and courageous, with a modest budget. The special effects are clunky, the costuming erratic, and armoury dubious, but it doesn't really matter. The story is well told, and dramatic. Submarine movies are at their best underwater where the claustrophobic drama is intense, and at their worst when that leaves them with nowhere to go. Here, fortunately the climax is on the surface, and incidental gems like a passing German patrol vessel playing music loudly also take place topside.The portrayal of toffs in charge and salt of the earth ranks grate a little now, but John Mills is a sound, reflective toff.Modern adrenaline junkies will not be impressed, but the simple heroism and determination portrayed is as impressive now as it was then.
Simon A. Conder
This is yet another example of the fantastic films that Britain USED TO MAKE. Great acting, powerful direction and real emotion.I saw in at the cinema a few weeks back and it really still packs a punch. I must get this one and others like the Cruel Sea on DVD.If only we could make films like this again.Why is it that we could make such great films 30 or 40 years back and now we have so many problems? Actually I think I know that answer to that one already.I think that it would be interesting to remake this film but it would have to be made by a top flight director I think
mccarthyos
If anything essays the upstairs-downstairs values of England, this film does it. Hilarious. Above decks its all 'Well done chaps..' Below decks its more 'Right oh Guv! Almost the archetypal stiff-upper lip British movie of all time. It seems like a satire, but I sure they were all deadly serious.
AD
