Review of Malta Story

Malta Story (1953)
8/10
Interesting, engaging, edifying, stirring war drama
15 August 2020
1942 and the island of Malta is battling for survival. The threat of invasion by Axis forces is increasing as air raids wear down its defence. Entering this maelstrom is Flight Lieutenant Peter Ross, an RAF photo-reconnaissance pilot. While not a natural combatant his work proves invaluable.

Great war-drama. Shows well the battle of Malta, its strategic importance and how close to defeat the Allied forces were. Quite interesting, edifying and engaging as you witness the daily struggle for the island to survive, from the strategic situation seen by the top brass all the way down to the average soldier and civilian. Also quite stirring, seeing what sacrifices were involved.

Filling in between the historic details are some nice little sub-plots involving human drama. Even the romantic angle was well done. Usually these sub-plots are superficial and sappy and add nothing to the story but here it fits in well with the bigger picture and is quite powerful, ultimately.

A great film on a lesser-known part of WW2 and a less glamourous aspect of the war, photo reconnaissance.
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