A BBC drama focusing on the harrowing experiences of a Spitfire pilot has been hailed as a 'hidden gem' by viewers, with some calling for it to be shown in high school history classes. The film, directed by Matthew Whitman, is inspired by the real-life story of Geoffrey Wellum, the youngest pilot to fly in the Battle of Britain.
Wellum, who wrote his autobiography 'First Light: The Story of the Boy Who Became a Man in the War-Torn Skies Above Britain', chronicled his experiences in World War Two. The drama begins in May 1940 when 18-year-old Wellum, played by Sam Heughan, joins the 92 squadron of the Royal Air Force. Despite having no flying experience, he is expected to pilot a Spitfire and is thrown into battle against the Luftwaffe.
The film follows Wellum as he takes part in the Battle of Britain and is awarded a medal, but by 1942 the pressure results in his breakdown. Viewers witness his ordeal as he grapples with the violence he has seen. The cast includes Gary Lewis as Mac and Ben Aldridge as Brian Kingcombe.
Boasting a 7/10 rating on IMDb, the film has received considerable praise from audiences. One fan said: 'I'm not much for war movies... The movie wasn't so much about Spitfires as it was on the effects the fighting had on the pilots. It would be a good film for a high school history class.' Another viewer added: 'It's an intimate study and I believe a truthful one... His final words are heart-breaking.'
