What a precious treat to see this movie that Deborah Kerr starred in, early in her film career. In 1940, she had a minor role as a cigarette girl in her first film, Contraband, which was followed by a supporting role in her second film, Major Barbara. Very quickly, starting with her 3rd film, Love on the Dole, she began taking on leading roles. This was her 6th film, barely 2 - 3 years into her film career. Not exactly sure when they started filming of this movie, but her biography mentions that, in early spring of 1941, in preparation for the role of Karin Alstad, she was learning how to speak with a Norwegian accent, coached by a Norwegian woman living in the same building in London. The film was released in England in June 1942. At the time, she was 21 years old. During filming, London was under the Great Blitz. Her biography mentions that, taking advantage of a pause in shooting, Deborah and Harold French who was the director of the film, went to visit Rex Harrison and his wife living in a rented house near the studio. Suddenly a bomb landed about 50 ft from the front door. The house collapsed and the walls fell on top of them. No one was seriously hurt, including the pregnant wife of Rex Harrison. I mention these anecdotes to give a sense of the dangers and difficulties of those bygone days, so we can have the proper appreciation for what they had to live through.
Lots of movies like this made to boost morale in struggling Britain, especially in 1942. Some factual events here concerning the successful British navy raid on the Lofoten Islands which were under German occupation.
Thank you for posting this little-seen film. It's always a pleasure to see the wonderfully intense Hugh Williams, and the great character actors - Sullivan, Huntley, Currie. Richardson's a bit wasted here with a role that doesn't quite suit him, but is also a joy to see. Your time and trouble is much appreciated!
Another British war movie filmed in the dark or in rooms with only one 40 watt blub. British directors and writers have no new ideas and no imagination.
