Bomber Harris (1989)
A gripping BBC drama examining the controversial wartime legacy of RAF Bomber Command chief Sir Arthur ‘Bomber’ Harris.
Bomber Harris - Movie Information
Bomber Harris - Plot
Biography of Arthur Harris (aka “Bomber Harris”) of RAF Bomber Command, during WW2 — in particular his strategy of heavy bomber “Millenium Raids” on German cities.
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Bomber Harris - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Michael Darlow
Main Cast
- John Thaw
- Robert Hardy
- Frederick Treves
- Bernard Kay
- Sophie Thompson
- Phil Brown
- David Healy
- John Nettleton
- David Quilter
- William Kerwin
Writers
- Don Shaw
Producers
- Innes Lloyd
Bomber Harris - FAQs
What is Bomber Harris about?
Bomber Harris follows the wartime career of Air Marshal Sir Arthur ‘Bomber’ Harris, the controversial head of RAF Bomber Command during World War II. The film focuses on his strategy of large-scale area bombing of German cities, including the infamous Millennium Raids, and the moral and military debates surrounding those decisions.
Was Arthur ‘Bomber’ Harris a hero or a war criminal?
That debate is very much at the heart of this film. Harris believed mass bombing would break German morale and shorten the war. Critics argued his area bombing campaigns caused enormous civilian casualties. The film presents both sides honestly, letting viewers wrestle with the moral complexity rather than delivering a simple verdict.
Who plays Arthur Harris in the film?
John Thaw takes on the role of Sir Arthur ‘Bomber’ Harris, delivering a commanding and nuanced performance. Thaw, best known for Inspector Morse, brings real gravitas to the role, capturing Harris’s steely determination alongside the weight of the decisions he made.
Who else stars in Bomber Harris alongside John Thaw?
The film boasts a strong supporting cast. Robert Hardy plays Winston Churchill, Frederick Treves portrays Sir Charles Portal, and Sophie Thompson appears as Jillie Harris. Phil Brown, David Healy, John Nettleton, Bernard Kay, David Quilter, and William Kerwin round out the ensemble.
What were the Millennium Raids depicted in the film?
The Millennium Raids were Harris’s audacious plan to send over 1,000 bombers in a single night against German cities. The first raid targeted Cologne in May 1942. Harris saw them as a way to demonstrate the war-winning potential of strategic bombing, though the human cost on both sides was immense.
Is Bomber Harris based on a true story?
Yes, the film is a dramatised biography of the real Air Marshal Sir Arthur Travers Harris, who led RAF Bomber Command from 1942 to 1945. Written by Don Shaw and produced by the BBC, it draws on historical record to reconstruct key decisions and debates from the wartime bombing campaign.
Who directed and wrote Bomber Harris?
Michael Darlow directed the film, with the screenplay written by Don Shaw. It was produced by Innes Lloyd for the BBC. Darlow was known for his work on serious historical and documentary drama, making him a fitting choice for this morally weighty subject.
What are some similar films to Bomber Harris?
If Bomber Harris grips you, try Battle of Britain (1969) or 633 Squadron (1964) for RAF action, or Darkest Hour (2017) for another look at wartime British leadership. Overlord (1975) and Decision Before Dawn (1951) also offer thoughtful, morally serious takes on the Second World War.
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