SOLD Target for Tonight (1941) ~ WW2 R.A.F. Bombing Classic ~ VHS (1981)

Collectibles : Militaria : World War Ii : Pins / Pinbacks / Badges / Ribbons : Video

 

Target for Tonight is a 1941 documentary film filmed and acted by the Royal Air Force, all while under fire. It was directed by Harry Watt. The film revolves for the most part around one crew in a single Wellington aircraft. The film went on to win an honorary Academy Award in 1942, and 'Best Documentary' by the National Board of Review in 1941.

Before the film, several text cards explain bombers and the Royal Air Force chain of command. The film begins with an observation aircraft flying over and dropping a box of undeveloped film. Bomber Command develops the film and analyzes the resulting photographs, which are presented for the audience to see. There has been a massive build-up by German forces in the subject area for the past few months. The film shows the planning of the mission, even detailing how the bomber wing chooses munitions for the task. The weather forecast is expected to be good, and the pilots are briefed. The crew of "'F' for Freddie", the bomber that is the focal point of the film, suits up and takes off. While over Germany, the crew bombs the target, dead on for one bomb, but is hit by flak from 'faceless' anti-aircraft gunners. The radio operator is hit in the leg. Freddie is the last aircraft to return. There is mist covering the water, prompting worry at the Command. Meanwhile, Freddie cannot climb after the flak hit. They are not losing altitude, but are in a bad situation. Tension builds in the film until finally, 'F for Freddie' lands. No aircraft are lost and the mission is a complete success.

This Video Yesteryear, 50 minute VHS has been shown several times over the last 25 years in my college WW2 class ~ dust cover / box in FAIR condition, while the tape itself is EXCELLENT ~ ~ Buy with confidence from A.P.I.C. Member# 15408 ~ click on the thumbnail & scroll down the next page to see an enlarged view.

Item ID: 3313

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SPECIAL i.e., not eligible for a discount in my current multi-buy sale.