dogstar

Always thought this was one of the best Brit war movies and deserving of more acclaim. It manages to be both part of a recognisable genre whilst subverting the conventions at the same time and although courage and self-sacrifice are at the film's core its rather it is not gung-ho film by any means. I especially like the relationship between Richard Attenborough and Percy Herbert whose death scene is almost unbearably poignant. Wounded and alone with a camouflage net and a machine gun he puts a family photo on the radio which he tunes to 'Gardener's Question Time' ( or the 1940's equivalent ) and sits back to wait for the approaching Germans as his mates reluctantly make their escape. Wonderful.

Ted Holmes

Thanks for the tip. I've never seen this but I note it was nominated for three BAFTAs. I'll overcome my Richard Attenborough prejudice and give it a look!

Steve Crook

That's a strange prejudice. Is it of him as an actor, director or both?
Either way, you're missing out on some fine films

Steve

Ted Holmes

Yes, of course he's been in some fine films and I don't let him spoil them for me. In any case I admit he can be damned good, well, in Brighton Rock at least. But there's a quality about him which spoils his work for me. I think it's something to do with taking himself too seriously, humourlessness ....and i just don't like his face!!

Steve Crook

Hunourless? Have you seen Doctor Dolittle (1967) or Loot (1970)? Or various others where either the film is a comedy or his role is comedic.
But if you just don't like his face, there's not too much that can be done about that

Steve

pudsonline

Hi All, I'm sure most of you know but just in case >>>

Channel 4 are showing Sea of Sand this week, Thursday 14/06/07 at 1335hrs :

(1958) Second World War action movie about a dangerous mission by the Long Range Desert Group to blow up a vital enemy patrol dump behind German lines in North Africa in 1943. With Richard Attenborough, John Gregson and Michael Craig.
[repeat] [subtitles] [b & w] [widescreen]

Ted Holmes

Perfect timing, thanks!

ukwood

that photo dad held up in Sea of Sand was on myself my sister and my mum. For the longset time I couldn't watch the end of that movie because I would bawl my eyes out. Like in the end of Camelot with Harris when he leaves Vanessa Redgrave for the last time just before the battle scene.
kate uk

dogstar

That scene has such an emotional effect anyway, I can only imagine how you must feel being so personally involved Kate. Thanks so much for that.

Simon

ukwood

Thanks you I appreciate you sentiments, it was never easy being the kid of an actor.
But on another note, regarding Richard Attenborough, what about his amazing performance in 10 Rillington Place, with the very young compelling John Hurt, but still Attenboroughs performance was chilling no?
Kate