Review of One of Our Aircraft Is Missing (1942) by Brian B — 16 Jun 2009

One of Our Aircraft Is Missing is a propaganda movie made during World War II but one that holds up well after six decades because of the unusual choices made by Powell and Pressburger. Such as there is no phony derring do or heroics.

The Dutch are the real heroes and get the job done in threatening situations, with bravery that is understated. The English crew know their lives depend on these men and women and learn quickly to do as they are told.

We hardly see a German. And we never see a stereotypical ranting, raving German officer or an enlisted goon. The German threat hangs over the movie, but it is made more effective by being subtle. The bravest and most resourceful of the Dutch are the women.

From Else Meertens (Pamela Brown), a schoolteacher in a small community, to Jo de Vries (Googie Withers), who plays a risky double game with the Germans and owns the fishing boats, it is the women to whom the crew owe their salvation.

There is no bombastic musical score. What we hear is wind rushing by, boots marching, the creak of windmills, water lapping at a stone pier and, often, just silence. The opening and closing credits play over the roar of the plane's engines.