It Happened Here

It Happened Here is a stark and thought-provoking British film set in a chilling alternate reality where Nazi Germany has successfully invaded and occupied the United Kingdom during World War II. Directed by Kevin Brownlow and Andrew Mollo, the film is noted for its meticulous attention to historical detail and the uncomfortable questions it poses about collaboration, resistance, and the moral compromises made under totalitarian rule.

The film stars Pauline Murray as Pauline, an everywoman and nurse who becomes the narrative's central figure. Through her eyes, the audience witnesses how ordinary British citizens react to the occupation, ranging from quiet compliance to outright collaboration and, for a brave few, resistance. Murray's character is not a heroine in the traditional sense; instead, her journey reflects the complex and often morally ambiguous choices individuals faced during wartime occupations across Europe.

Sebastian Shaw takes on the role of a local official in the puppet government established by the Nazi regime, while Bart Allison's character adds to the tapestry of occupied life, providing perspective on how different social strata and professions are impacted by the presence and policies of the invaders.

The film opens with the disorienting presence of German soldiers marching down familiar British streets, brandishing swastikas—a sight that would have been unthinkable to the British population of the time. Much of It Happened Here's tension arises not from traditional battle scenes but from the psychologically gripping scenario of adapting to life under the boot of the enemy.

As Pauline navigates this treacherous new landscape, she encounters a myriad of characters, each representing a different facet of collaboration or rebellion. Some British subjects rationalize their cooperation with the Nazis as an attempt to maintain a semblance of normalcy, while others, enticed by power or ideology, embrace the occupiers' cause wholeheartedly, illustrating the seductive nature of authoritarianism.

The filmmakers painstakingly recreate the period's look and feel, thanks in part to the contributions of actual World War II uniforms and equipment that give the film an air of authenticity. The decision to shoot in stark black and white not only reflects the actual media of the era but also serves to underscore the film's somber themes and moral quandaries.

One of the key elements of the film's unsettling realism is the use of non-professional actors, many of whom bring a raw and unpolished presence to their roles. This choice amplifies the disquieting effect of seeing everyday Britons submitting to or embracing fascist rule. It also serves to blur the lines between fiction and reality, making the audience ponder how they might act under similar circumstances.

Throughout the film, a sense of foreboding permeates everyday interactions, as citizens must be ever cautious about what they say and do. The constant threat of betrayal hangs over every scene, adding a layer of suspense to Pauline's experiences as she is constantly forced to reevaluate her stances and allegiances. Each character displays their own rationale for their choices, challenging the viewer to examine the complex shades of right and wrong in a world gone mad.

Despite the grim setting, It Happened Here does not merely wallow in despair; subtle acts of defiance and moments of human connection pierce the veneer of the occupation, demonstrating the resilience of the human spirit. The film deftly explores themes of conformity, the human capacity for evil, and the enduring debate over whether it's better to work within the system to mitigate its worst effects or to resist it unequivocally.

While It Happened Here was released in 1964, its subject matter and the questions it poses remain timeless and universally applicable. The potency of the film lies in its capacity to consider not just the historical event of World War II, but the broader human susceptibilities to fear, opportunism, and coercion. It challenges audiences to reflect on their potential actions in a society turned upside down by occupation and tyranny. The film serves as a poignant reminder of the thin and fragile line that separates civilization from barbarism.

In sum, It Happened Here stands as a stark and significant piece of cinematic achievement. The film's impact lies in its ability to successfully examine complex issues of collaboration and resistance during wartime, while providing a chilling reminder of what could have been, had history taken a different path. It is a film that resonates with viewers not just for its alternative history narrative but also for its exploration of the psyche under extreme conditions of societal collapse and corruption.