Twelve O'Clock High (1949)

The wartime memories of surviving World War II bomber squadrons were still crystal clear when this acclaimed drama was released in 1949--one of the first postwar films out of Hollywood to treat the war on emotionally complex terms. Framed by a postwar prologue and epilogue and told as a flashback appreciation of wartime valor and teamwork, the film stars Gregory Peck in one of his finest performances as a callous general who assumes command of a bomber squadron based in England. At first, the new commander has little rapport with the 918th Bomber Group, whose loyalties still belong with their previous commander. As they continue to fly dangerous missions over Germany, however, the group and their new leader develop mutual respect and admiration, until the once-alienated commander feels that his men are part of a family--men whose bravery transcends the rigors of rigid discipline and by-the-book leadership. The film's now-classic climax, in which the general waits patiently for his squad to return to base--painfully aware that they may not return at all--is one of the most subtle yet emotionally intense scenes of any World War II drama. With Peck in the lead and Dean Jagger doing Oscar-winning work in a crucial supporting role, this was one of veteran director Henry King's proudest achievements, and it still packs a strong dramatic punch. --Jeff Shannon Amazon.com

Twelve O'Clock High

Timely delivery and excellent conditions. Good character portraital by the actors and a excellent story line. December 30, 2008

twelve o'clock high

This film was required viewing for an Army advanced officer class because of the way it depicts three contrasting leadership styles. The acting was superb as was the use of actual gun camera footage and actual crashes as opposed to the special effects so common today. I recommend this film for all those who enjoy character development and acting. Despite being a war movie, the only action scenes are a clip in the beginning and the end of the film. The actors carry the film and its no wonder it received so many Academy Award nominations. December 20, 2008

Fantastic movie

Absolutely fantastic movie. Highly recommended. A World War II story worth watching. No WWII collection is complete without Twelve O'Clock High. December 17, 2008

Twelve O'Clock High

Twelve O'Clock High is one of my all time favorite movies. A great lesson on leadership styles. Many other everyday lessons in working with and for people. Great movie with tremendous acting. October 24, 2008

A Real Look at Commanding a B17 Group

The realism in this film is what makes it one of my all time favorites. The footage of real B17s in operation; the real war footage while on a mission, and the story itself are as good as it gets. The extra commentary on the second DVD is a wonderful addition of insights to making the film. August 24, 2008

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