2949. Hope And Glory (1987)

Starring: Sebastian Rice-Edwards, Sarah Miles, David Hyman

Director: John Boorman

Running Time: 113 mins

Hope And Glory is a British film about the life of a young boy during the Blitz of World War Two, as he discovers the world of adults in the later years of his carefree youth.

Proving the power of an optimistic spirit even in the most difficult of times, Hope And Glory is a wonderful watch, and a beautifully heartfelt, nostalgic view into life during the height of the Second World War.

With great humour, heartwarming coming-of-age drama, moments of affecting emotion and a detailed, intimate account of everyday life in the time period, this is the sort of film to warm the cockles of your heart and tell you that there’s always hope even when it may all seem lost.

Based on the childhood experiences of writer-director John Boorman, there’s a powerfully personal touch to Hope And Glory that really adds to its inspiring and cosy atmosphere. That doesn’t mean it’s without real, challenging drama, but the film’s balance between optimism and appropriate gravitas is what really makes it stand out.

From its wonderful display of familial solidarity during the war to the adventures of a young boy discovering the world under the shadow of conflict, this film has so much to say, and it does so in an enjoyable and still thoroughly touching manner.

With that, Hope And Glory isn’t just a great look back at everyday life during the war, but also a heartfelt insight into life itself. From the young boy’s newfound discoveries about the adult world to his older sister’s complex relationships with others, and to the strains put on the family in times of crisis, this movie really does hit very close to home.

But it’s not an overly heavy-going drama, nor is it a big tearjerker. Because, with a down-to-earth attitude and a hilarious sense of humour, there are laughs and smiles abundant here, all bolstered by excellent performances from a wonderful ensemble cast.

Overall, Hope And Glory is an absolutely wonderful film. Heartfelt, nostalgic, personal and intimate, it’s a touching watch throughout, brought to life with a riveting insight into life in wartime and wider themes of life itself, as well as a uplifting atmosphere and a delightful sense of humour. And that’s why I’m giving it a 7.6.