The Way To The Stars [1945]

John Mills is fantastic, as are all the actors and actresses in the film. This film is one I always try to see when its on the TV, even though I own it. I've shed a tear at it more than once.

A Genuine Classic.


A period piece with a distinctive view of aircrew's lives.   August 3, 2000
raburnham@btinternet.com (Liverpool, UK)
24 out of 24 found this review helpful

Halliwell's guide description of "comedy drama" is misleading. There is much in the film that raises a smile (particularly the cameo performance of Stanley Holloway) but this is humour as a reflection of life rather than 'comedy'. The film centres on the life of aircrew - both RAF and US - but there is virtually no 'action'. This absence does not in any way inhibit the film's capacity to convey the tensions and numbing ferocity of the routine death-toll of active service in daylight bombers. Some noteworthy early film appearances of Trevor Howard, David Tomlinson and Bill Owen's debut (then known as Bill Rowbotham). Those who know say the period is captured perfectly. A film that will stand many viewings and well worth acquiring at budget price on DVD.