Theirs Is the Glory

Set in the backdrop of World War II, Theirs Is the Glory is a gritty war documentary-drama that harks back to the series of events categorized as Operation Market Garden. Released in the year 1946, the film stars Stanley Maxted, Thomas Scullion, and Allan Wood. The movie vividly retells the unforgettable and gallant tale of the Battle of Arnhem.

Interestingly, the film stands out in the realm of war dramas as it features actual survivors, both servicemen and civilians of the Battle of Arnhem. This lends a degree of authenticity seldom observed in the genre. Stanley Maxted, who plays himself, was a real-life war correspondent, while Thomas Scullion and Allan Wood had been servicemen involved in the actual event.

Theirs Is the Glory is widely appreciated for its unique filmmaking approach. The producers took a special interest in maintaining the highest level of authenticity, a feat that's evident in the final cut. Adding more credibility to the movie, it was filmed on the very locations in the Netherlands that bore witness to the Battle of Arhem in 1944. The attention to detail is impeccable; original army vehicles, aircraft, and an array of equipment have been used to stay true to the time and place.

The narrative of Theirs Is the Glory is structured in a chronology that primarily highlights three significant days of Operation Market Garden, starting from September 17th, 1944. As the drama unfolds, it takes the audience right into the heart of the courageous and harrowing battlefield experiences. Director Brian Desmond Hurst masterfully ensures that the story stays grounded and realistic, avoiding any level of dramatic excess whilst focusing on human valor and determination.

As an unconventional blend of documentary and drama, Theirs Is the Glory brings to light the individual stories of servicemen and their collective heroism. Irrespective of their ranks or roles, whether a foot soldier or a general, the film honors each one's bravery and grit. The film also covers the bond between the soldiers and their capacity for camaraderie under extreme circumstances. It also references the quick thinking and resourcefulness required in the face of unpredictable warfare.

While the film can be intense considering its harsh war-based narrative, it also manages to bring forth humbling instances of humor and light-hearted camaraderie effortlessly woven into the narrative; these glimpses provide momentary reprieve from the grim backdrop, making it more relatable and human.

On the technical horizon, Theirs Is the Glory showcases excellent production values for its time, from its black-and-white cinematography to its adept handling of large scale action sequences. Cinematographer, Desmond Dickinson, does a commendable job in capturing the bleak yet real visuals, equally sprawling and intimate. The action scenes are also noteworthy, and all the more significant as they expertly reenact real-life military operations.

Something that sets Theirs Is the Glory apart is its sound design. The movie captures the raw, deafening, and chaotic sounds of war remarkably well, and understanding the limitations and capabilities of sound technology during the mid-1940s, this achievement becomes even more incredible.

Stanley Maxted stands out with a memorable performance, perhaps owing to his personal involvement with the actual event as a war journalist. His authoritative voice and demeanor remain etched in viewers' minds. Both Scullion and Wood are exceptional in their portrayals as everyday heroes, communicating the reality of war with raw intensity.

In essence, Theirs Is the Glory is a gripping saga of resilience and bravery against all the odds. It transcends the realm of pure entertainment and sits firmly in the genre of key historical documentation from this era. It's a tribute to those who fought and fell heroically in the Battle of Arnhem and a stark reminder of the war's unforgiving reality.