The Lion Has Wings

Synopsis

The Lion Has Wings is a 1939 British war propaganda film directed by Michael Powell, starring Merle Oberon. Set during the early days of World War II, the movie follows the Allied forces as they prepare to defend Britain against the threat of the Nazi Luftwaffe. With stunning aerial sequences and a patriotic narrative, the film showcases the bravery of the RAF pilots and the resilience of the British people in the face of adversity. As tensions rise and the fate of the nation hangs in the balance, The Lion Has Wings delivers a compelling portrayal of courage and sacrifice during a pivotal moment in history.

Cast

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  Merle Oberon

  Mrs. Richardson

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  Ralph Richardson

  Wing Commander Richardson

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  June Duprez

  June

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  Flora Robson

  Queen Elizabeth I (archive footage)

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  Robert Douglas

  Briefing Officer

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  Anthony Bushell

  Pilot

Reviews

The Lion Has Wings received a mixed reception from critics upon its release in 1939. While some praised the film for its impressive aerial sequences and patriotic spirit, others found fault with its simplistic portrayal of the war. The New York Times commended the movie for its visual effects, stating, 'The aerial scenes are breathtaking and add a sense of urgency to the narrative.' However, Variety criticized the film for its lack of depth, noting, 'The Lion Has Wings falls short in depicting the true horrors of war, opting instead for a glossy and overly optimistic view.' Despite its shortcomings, the movie was appreciated for its timely message of unity and resilience in the face of adversity. On IMDb, The Lion Has Wings holds a rating of 5.7/10, reflecting the polarized opinions of audiences.