Reach For The Sky Details

While many of Hollywood's tales about heroism during the Second World War were tainted by smug patriotism and unwelcome sentiment, postwar British cinema tended to handle the events of the conflict with fidelity and dignity, thanks no doubt to its worthy documentary heritage. This inspiring tale of unassuming courage is one of the finest in a proud tradition. Lewis Gilbert masterfully makes the drama as compelling as the action sequences, and Kenneth More gives the performance of his career as Douglas Bader, the cocky pilot who overcame the loss of his legs in a pre-war flying accident to become one of the RAF's most decorated heroes.

Box-office exploitation of one man's personal heroism, adequately but not inspiringly put together with many stiff upper lips and much jocular humour.