★ 7 / 10
Again, Alastair Sim manages to impose himself on
CinemaSerf
Again, Alastair Sim manages to impose himself on the cast of this superior British espionage yarn and turn it into something surprisingly enjoyable. It's a…
Again, Alastair Sim manages to impose himself on the cast of this superior British espionage yarn and turn it into something surprisingly enjoyable. It's a tale set in a tiny wartime Scottish hospital were a Nazi spy ring are trying to get the secrets of local scientist Leslie Banks' innovative new bomb sight. Soon, though, we discover that the authorities are aware of the goings-on and have planted a counter-agent - we just don't now who is who! There are plenty of decent performances from Sim; John Mills as recuperating RAF officer "Perry"; Michael Wilding; an on-form Catherine Lacey as "Mrs. Stokes" and a cheeky, engaging contribution from a 16 year old George Cole and the intrigue lasts pretty much throughout the ninety minutes. The ending is a little disappointing, but overall it's a film that ought to get out more...
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★ 7 / 10
delightful film
blanche-2
I plow through the '40s and '50s black and white films, usually Bs, and occasionally I find a real gem. "Bombsight Stolen," or "Cottage to Let," its American…
I plow through the '40s and '50s black and white films, usually Bs, and occasionally I find a real gem. "Bombsight Stolen," or "Cottage to Let," its American name, is one.
Based on a play, it stars Leslie Banks, Jeanne De Casalis, Alistair Sim, Michael Wilding, John Mills, and George Cole.
The activity centers around a Scottish cottage, where the Barringtons live. The cottage currently serves several purposes: a place for evacuees, a hospital when a downed British airman (Mills) is found nearby, a place for the annual fair, and a science lab, as Mr. Barrington (Banks) is a military inventor. When Mr. Dimble (Alistair Sim) shows up to rent the cottage, he finds out it's not for rent and moves into the house.
The Nazis want Barrington's inventions, so MI-5 and Scotland Yard each have a man in the house. Who are they? Is there a mole among them? Very enjoyable film, with a hilarious performance by Jeanne De Casalis, the lady of the house who can't keep anything straight. It's the showiest role. Alistair Sim is excellent, as is young John Mills and Sims' protégé, George Cole. I have a feeling the part of Ronald (Cole) was intended for an actor a couple of years younger. He evidently played the role on the stage, which would have been earlier.
Charming film, well directed by Anthony Asquith, with some interesting scenes that take place in the annual fair fun house at the end.
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Seeds, Please! Thank you!