Watch The War Lover

The War Lover, released in 1962, is a gripping war film directed by Philip Leacock and based on the novel of the same name by John Hersey. The film stars Steve McQueen as Buzz Rickson, a fearless and cocky B-17 bomber pilot during World War II. Rickson is stationed in England with his crew, including his co-pilot and best friend Ed Boland, played by Robert Wagner. Despite his reckless behavior and disregard for authority, Rickson is revered by his crew for his skill and bravery in the air. He becomes obsessed with the danger and excitement of bombing missions, often taking unnecessary risks in order to prove his abilities.

The film explores the psychological toll of war, as Rickson's growing obsession with combat begins to take a toll on his mental state. He becomes increasingly isolated and detached from his loved ones, including his girlfriend Daphne (played by Shirley Anne Field), as he becomes more and more consumed by his need for combat.

As the crew embark on increasingly dangerous missions, tensions mount between Rickson and Boland, as Boland begins to question the sanity of his friend and the safety of their crew. The film builds to a dramatic climax as the crew face their most perilous mission yet, and Rickson must confront the consequences of his reckless behavior.

The War Lover features stunning aerial footage of B-17 bomber planes and intense action sequences that capture the danger and excitement of combat. The film also explores the complex emotional dynamics between soldiers, as Rickson's relationships with his crew and loved ones are strained by the stress of war.

Steve McQueen delivers a powerful performance as Rickson, capturing the character's complex mix of bravado and vulnerability. Robert Wagner brings a quiet intensity to the role of Boland, providing a necessary counterpoint to Rickson's recklessness. Shirley Anne Field's portrayal of Daphne provides a rare glimpse into the impact of war on those left behind.

Overall, The War Lover is a powerful war film that explores the psychological toll of combat and the relationships between soldiers under duress. With impressive aerial footage and strong performances from its lead actors, the film remains a classic of the genre.

The War Lover is a 1962 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 45 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.5.