A Welcome to Britain

1943
Sound
60m

Britain for beginners... or Americans, at least. An information film explaining the wonders of Britain to new American arrivals during WWII.

An uncredited Anthony Asquith is one of the directors of this WWII film (a joint UK/US production) which aims to explain British culture and character to the newly arrived American soldier. Starting with the ubiquitous pub visit, the film breezes through geography lessons, food and entertainment on the Home Front.

Remarkably the film is not a patronising propaganda piece like so many other similar productions - other than the rather clumsy section on race. This success is down to the genial presence of Burgess 'The Penguin' Meredith as our guide, who always knows when to offer a supporting look or comment to camera. Whilst the British may come across as a little staid, the film explains that after four years of war, "we are not quiet, just weary".

Life Under Fire

The horror of Luftwaffe bombs coloured daily life in Britain's cities and beyond, and war brought myriad daily hardships besides. But Britain could take it!

The Blitz receded after May 1941, but even after the Battle of Britain, the nation faced a barrage of incendiary bombs, V-1s and V-2s. While young men fought Axis powers across three continents, their families listened anxiously to the wireless, while many worried too about children far from home. But in the face of the destruction, sirens, blackouts and hours in shelters, the now-legendary 'Blitz spirit' kept despair at bay. Britain held her nerve thanks to mutual support, defiance and wit - plus a good grumble and as many cups of tea as rationing allowed.