Set initially in wartime Portsmouth this film charts the selection, training and eventual success of one of the Second World War’s most famous and daring raids. The brainchild of Major ‘Blondie’ Haslar Royal Marines, the plan was to penetrate German defences on a French river to destroy enemy shipping in the basin at the far end. This plan was to be accomplished using only simple two man canoes, and was ultimately successful despite the fact that only 2 of the ten man team survived to return to the UK.

The film has a wonderful performance from Jose Ferrer as Major ‘Stringer’ and Trevor Howard of ‘Brief Encounter’ fame as his Second in Command.

As to be expected in a film of this age (1954) the special effects are somewhat crude and the scene involving the destruction of the ships is laughable, however the film is gripping if only as a testament to the bravery of the team involved! Several members of the raid were shot without trial by the German military as spies.

The other surviving member apparently rode a brief wave of notoriety following the films release and although he died last year Marine Bill Sparks will be remembered fondly by all serving and ex Royal Marines.

Buy a little history today and you won’t be disapointed!
Rating: 4 / 5