Discussing 'The Dambusters' (1955) with Dr. Dan Ellin

Dr. Dan Ellin, Historian and Archivist from the International Bomber Command Centre, joins Sean to discuss The Dam Busters (1955).Discussion Points:-Dan discusses his love/hate relationship with the film and it's portrayal of Operation Chastise.-The absence of major motion pictures about RAF Bomber Command.-The importance of collective memory regarding the Second World War. -The use of the Dam Busters march at 'Bomber' Harris's funeral.-The enemies in the film: bureaucrats, Whitehall and red tape.-The fantastic casting in the film.-The incredible flying during the making of the film.-Putting RAF Bomber Command into historical context.-The lack of the raid on the Sorpe Dam in the film.-The impact of the Official Secrets Act on the film.-Sean does his best to translate very English aspects of the film for American listeners. -The optics of history and the loss of nuance. -The influence on this film on George Lucas when he was making Star Wars (1977).-The things that Britain leans back on in times of adversity.Raised Questions:-Do people see RAF Bomber Command as either 'Dam Busters or Dresden'?-Are the historical details faithfully intact?-How important are myths to a country?-Was it really difficult for Barnes Wallis to get the idea for the raid accepted?-Why do the British love an underdog story?-Did the Americans have better PR and spin?-Would you love to see Peter Jackson's The Dam Busters?-Does the film tell the story of what happened rather than what was meant to happen?-Why is Guy Gibson portrayed a certain way in the film?-Does the film lack nuance?-Does the film serve as a good starting point for people who may not know the story of the Dam Busters raid?Further Reading Recommendations:-'Guy Gibson' by Richard Morris.-'Dam Buster Barnes Wallis: An Engineers Life' by Richard Morris.-'The Fire' (Original Title: Der Brand) by Jorg Friedrich.-'The Strategic Air Offensive Against Germany' by Noble Frankland and Charles Webster.-The Weirdstone of Brisingamen (1960) and Elidor (1965) by Alan Garner.Film/Documentary Recommendations:-They Shall Not Grow Old (2018).-Dambusters Declassified (2010) with Martin Shaw. -Inspector George Gently (2007-2017).-Judge John Deed (2001-2007).-The Guns of Navarone (1961).-The Heroes of Telemark (1965).-The Carling Black Label adverts.Podcast Recommendations:-History Rage.-Never Mind The Dambusters.Thanks for Listening!Find us here: X: @YourselfReviewInstagram: reviewityourselfpodcast2021YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ReviewItYourself⁠ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.