British Cinema 1939-45
During the six years of the Second World War, more people went to the cinema than ever before, to see British films of an unprecedented high quality: In Which We Serve, The Way Ahead, Western Approaches, Desert Victory, Millions Like Us, The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp and The Way to the Stars.
Was the wartime period the golden age of British cinema, as many have suggested? Did its special conditions provide unique opportunities for the younger generation of film-makers?
Christopher Frayling tells the story of wartime film, with contributions from actor and writer Peter Ustinov , film directors Michael Powell , Roy Boulting , Sidney Gilliat , Pat Jackson and John Taylor , actor Bernard Miles and critic Dilys Powell. Film editor PAUL HARDY
Producer MARGARET SHARP