The Flying Scot

When ex GI Ronnie comes up with a plan to rob a mail train of half a million in used notes it seems to good to be true. It will be simple he says as him and Jackie go under the cover of being newly married and wanting some privacy and their partner Phil simply acts as another passenger. When the time comes they cut through the train and into the other sealed room, steal the bags and throw them off for another accomplice to collect. What could go wrong?

The 1950s were filled with films about spectacular crimes and criminal gangs. The films from this generation were inspired from crime films of the 30s from America and like the French new wave from the abundance of Film Noir hanging around after the end of the Second World War. This era created some of the most distinct films from Ealing cinema and the British B movie generation. They also lead to the British New wave and as such they formed what would be seen as a golden age of cinema in this country. This 1957 film fits well into this mould as it is a B movie of quality but unlike some of the bigger (and honestly better) films, this disappeared from view as it had few who championed its cause. Network have set about releases these films from the period in order for film fans and historian types too understand the era and the film makers of the time. I for one congratulate them on a fine job and wish them well!

This film didn’t win awards, it also didn’t get onto film makers lists of films they would watch or that you should watch. It is however worth spending your time and money on buying this film. Why? You may well ask me this in the angered way that it is fine for me to spend your money, well here goes. This film is a classic and wonderful example of restricted film making. It is what inspired the later film makers who loved cult films and wanted to change cinema. It is also a super example of the quality that this country had to offer against the strength of the Hollywood film elite. The acting is on par and the script is limited and fits its time just about. The story isn’t amazing but the film creates tension, builds suspense and even has a little humour and social commentary.
The opening silent 10 minutes is amazing and shows the talent of a clever film maker and a skilled editor. They must have loved Rififi!

These are all good things on a budget to do. I could imagine the producers were probably quite pleased with the result of this film on its initial screening. We live in a time where the main feature is the main feature and we dont have two films shown on a single day but this film isn't from these times. The film also should be seen for what it was. A starter in the cinema to a main feature and so it isn’t expected to hold up the evening viewing, it is to warm you up for the main event!