Allied Air Power 1942 - 1945
DVD
Not Rated
May 2013
This DVD contains two of the most powerful films ever made on the subject of aerial combat in World War II. “Smashing The Reich” is a superb documentary film which draws entirely on newsreel footage from both Allied and Axis sources and avoids the jingoistic tone which blights many films made in the immediate post-war era. Using a sparse, well-scripted narration the film brilliantly documents how strategic bombing was used to cripple the German war effort and highlights the failure of area bombing as a weapon of terror. The role of the Allied tactical air force in achieving the victories on the ground at Falaise and Mortain are also explored.
Also included is the original wartime color documentary “Memphis Belle”, featuring the famous B-17 Flying Fortress which successfully completed 25 missions over enemy territory.
Essential viewing for everyone with an interest in aviation history.
