Welcome to Reel Britannia-a very British podcast about very British movies ...with just a hint of professionalism.

Classic wartime drama from the 50s this week with Kenneth More in the story of a true British hero.

Reach For The Sky (1956)

Biopic of famed British World War II flyer Sir Douglas Bader. He joined the RAF in 1928 and easily took to flying, perhaps too easily as his commanders are concerned at the risks he takes with his aircraft. After a nasty crash in 1931, he loses both of his legs above the knee. After a long convalescence and learning to walk again with artificial legs, he returns to flying school where he again passes. The RAF forcibly retires him due to his presumed disability. With the onset of World War II, Bader is re-instated and given command of a fighter squadron. He survives the Battle of Britain but is shot down over enemy territory in 1941 losing one of his artificial legs. He was a POW and the RAF even sent a new leg to replace the one he lost. Known as a problem prisoner because of his numerous attempts to escape, he was transferred to Colditz for much of his time until the war's end.

 

Equipment Officer: I'm sorry, the book says I must wait three months before I can initiate the procedure for hastening new issue.

Bader: Fine! We'll send Goring a telegram, and ask him not to come over for *three months*!

 

 

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Thanks for listening!

Scott and Steven