Watch Desert Victory

Desert Victory is a 1943 British documentary film directed by Roy Boulting. The film depicts the Allied victory in the North African Campaign during World War II, specifically the Battle of El Alamein, which was fought between the British Eighth Army and the German-Italian Axis forces. The movie features a powerful narration by J.L. Hodson and stands as one of the most uplifting and inspiring examples of wartime propaganda.

The film starts by showcasing the vast desert landscapes of North Africa, where English, American and Commonwealth soldiers are seen marchingtowards the front line. The narration explains that the Middle East was critical to the success in the World War II and the British army was trying to protect its interests in Egypt, the Suez Canal and Palestine.

The camera then takes us to the Desert Rats, a highly-skilled, mobile band of soldiers tasked with fighting the German forces in the deserts around Tobruk. Among the soldiers featured in the film, Major-General Harold Alexander, who led the British forces, and Major-General Bernard Montgomery, who planned the offensive strategies against the German Field Marshal Erwin Rommel.

The film details the intense and grueling nature of the battles in the North African campaign, showing how soldiers had to contend with the scorching heat and sandstorms while fighting relentlessly against the enemy. The footage also gives a glimpse into the determination and willingness of the soldiers to fight even in the direst of circumstances.

Desert Victory also includes speeches from the leaders of the Allied forces, including then British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, who is seen motivating and inspiring the troops with his stirring speeches. His presence in the movie provides a stark reminder of the fervent energy and resolve needed to win the War.

The film also shows us the situation of the civilians living in North Africa, who had to endure the chaos, trauma and hardships brought by the war. Many spent their days hiding or trekking across the deserts, escaping the heavy bombing campaigns by the German forces.

Desert Victory concludes with the Battle of El Alamein, where the Allies won their first major victory in the North African campaign, effectively ending the Axis powers' hopes to gain control over the Middle East. The film celebrates the resilience, determination and bravery of the soldiers, as well as the innovative tactics and strategies employed by their commanding officers.

Overall, Desert Victory is a testament to the power of cinema in building morale and support during times of war. Its stirring narration and vivid footage of battles and bombings offer us a glimpse into the bravery and tenacity of the soldiers who fought in what was one of the turning points of the Second World War. The film also provides a unique historical account of the campaign in North Africa and sheds some light on the social and political context of the time.

Desert Victory is a 1943 war movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 2 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4.