Watch Reach for Glory

Set in the backdrop of the Second World War, 'Reach for Glory' is a heartwarming story of three young boys and how their innocence is shattered by the ravages of war. Directed by Philip Leacock, the movie was released in 1962 and stars Michael Anderson Jr., Oliver Grimm, and Martin Tomlinson in lead roles. The movie starts with a group of young boys playing in a small English town. The air is filled with excitement and hope as they dream about becoming soldiers and fighting for their country. However, their innocence is soon shattered as they witness the real horrors of war.

The three boys, Tom (Michael Anderson Jr.), Terry (Oliver Grimm), and Ed (Martin Tomlinson), are the central characters of the movie. Each one of them has a different personality and perspective towards the war. Tom is the eldest and the most passionate about joining the army. Terry, on the other hand, is more cautious and has reservations about the war. Ed is the most innocent of the three and is often caught between the conflicting views of his friends.

As the war intensifies, the boys encounter several challenges in their lives. Tom's father is killed in the war, which affects him deeply. Terry's family is forced to evacuate their home due to the threat of bombings, and Ed's brother is injured in combat. The boys are forced to grow up before their time and confront the harsh realities of war.

Despite the challenges, the boys find solace in each other's company. They stick together and support each other through thick and thin. Their friendship is put to the test when Terry decides to register as a conscientious objector, which puts him at odds with Tom and Ed, who want to join the army.

The movie does an excellent job of portraying the emotional turmoil that the boys go through during the war. It captures their fears, hopes, and dreams with great sensitivity. The cinematography is top-notch, and it effectively captures the mood and atmosphere of wartime England.

Michael Anderson Jr., Oliver Grimm, and Martin Tomlinson deliver powerful performances that bring their characters to life. Anderson Jr., in particular, shines as Tom, the passionate young man who yearns to fight for his country. He portrays the character with great conviction and depth, making him both relatable and admirable.

Overall, 'Reach for Glory' is a poignant and thought-provoking movie that explores the impact of war on young minds. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in exploring the human side of warfare. The movie's message is timeless, and it reminds us that war is never really justified, no matter how much we may try to glorify it.