Aces High

The story

The first World War is in its third year and aerial combat above the Western Front is consuming the nation's favored children at an appalling rate. By early 1917, the average life-span of a British pilot is less than a fortnight. Such losses place a fearsome strain on Gresham, commanding officer of the squadron. Aces High recreates the early days of the Royal Flying Corps with some magnificently staged aerial battles, and sensitive direction presents a moving portrayal of the futilities of war.

Cast

M Malcolm McDowellMaj. John Gresham C Christopher PlummerCapt. 'Uncle' Sinclair S Simon WardLt. Crawford P Peter FirthLt. Stephen Croft D David WoodLt. 'Tommy' Thompson J John GielgudHeadmaster T Trevor HowardLieutenant Colonel Silkin R Richard JohnsonMajor Lyle R Ray MillandBrigadier General Whale G Gilles BéhatCaptain Beckenauer T Tim Pigott-SmithMajor Stoppard D David DakerBennett

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C Christopher BlakeLieutenant Roberts B Barry JacksonJoyce R Ron PemberEliot J Jacques MauryPonnelle P Pascale ChristopheCroft's French Girlfriend J Judy BuxtonFrench Girl P Penny IrvingFrench Girl T Tricia NewbyFrench Girl E Evelyn CordeauFrench Girl J Jeanne PatouFrench Singer J John SerretFrench Colonel G Gerard PaquisFrench Officer J Jean DriantCorporal - Dressing Station E Elliott CooperWade R Roland VinerOfficer S Steven PaceyOfficer K Kim LotisOfficer C Colin RixSergeant J James WalshGresham's Batman J Jane AnthonyKatherine P Paul RoseburyReplacement P Paul HenleyReplacement D David ArnoldReplacement J James CormackSchool Captain