The First of the Few

The film chronicles the early development of Britain's Royal Air Force (RAF) during the interwar period and the crucial contributions of R. J. Mitchell, the designer of the Spitfire aircraft. It focuses on Mitchell's struggles against bureaucracy and technical challenges, highlighting the dedication of the engineers and pilots who worked to create a superior fighter plane in anticipation of future conflict. The narrative builds towards the Battle of Britain, showcasing the Spitfire's pivotal role in defending the United Kingdom.

Upon its release, 'The First of the Few' was widely praised for its patriotic sentiment and its tribute to British ingenuity during a critical period of World War II. Critics lauded its historical accuracy, strong performances, and emotional resonance, recognizing it as an important piece of wartime propaganda that also served as a compelling biographical drama. While its dramatic elements were generally well-received, some noted the film's overt nationalistic tone, which was expected given its context. Audience reception was overwhelmingly positive, with the film resonating deeply with the public during the war.

• A stirring tribute to the creators of the Spitfire and a vital piece of wartime morale-boosting cinema.

• Leslie Howard delivers a powerful performance and direction, effectively blending biographical drama with patriotic fervor.

• The film captures the spirit of British resilience and innovation in the face of adversity.

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Leslie Howard, who directed and starred as R. J. Mitchell, was tragically killed when his plane was shot down over the Bay of Biscay by German fighters in June 1943, several months after the film's release.