“THE LION HAS WINGS”

Wairarapa Times-Age, 21 November 1939, Page 2

“THE LION HAS WINGS”

GLORIOUS EPIC OF ROYAL AIR FORCE.

London Films' “The Lion Has Wings/' sponsored by the British Government, is Alexander Korda's great new British production, and tells the stirring story of how Great Britain gradually awoke to the menace of Hitlerism, the threat to the life and liberties of all Europe which the German war machine proclaimed. Written by lan Dalrymple, who is also associate producer, it tells of the swift and efficient transformation of a nation devoted to the pursuits of peace into a people mightily armed to resist aggression. It contrasts in a sequence of fascinating shots the spirit of the Empire, devoted to sport, seeking education, concerned with progress, with the spirit of Nazi Germany, drilling, marching, organising, preparing day and night for one purpose and one purpose only—War! The first episodes of the war are brilliantly reconstructed, including actual shots of the daring raid on Kiel, and featuring the men who carried out the raid. The whole film reflects the power and confidence of the British people, and the certainty of ultimate victory. Merle Oberon, Ralph Richardson, Flora Robson and June Deprez contribute memorable performances and are admirably supported by Robert Douglas, Anthony Bushell. Derrick de Marney, and George Carney. The film was directed by Michael Powell, Brian Desmond Hurst and Adrian Brunel, with the full co-operation of the Royal Air Force. The picture is on its way to New Zealand by Air Mail, and will be released at an early date by United Artists. The Masterton screening will take place at the State Theatre.