The Wipers Times
When Captain Fred Roberts discovered a printing press in the ruins of Ypres, Belgium in 1916, he decided to publish a satirical magazine called The Wipers Times - "Wipers" being army slang for Ypres. Full of gallows humour, The Wipers Times was poignant, subversive and very funny. Produced literally under enemy fire and defying both authority and gas attacks, the magazine proved a huge success with the troops on the western front. It was, above all, a tribute to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of overwhelming adversity. In his spare time, Roberts also managed to win the Military Cross for gallantry.
Insights
Plot Summary
Based on a true story, 'The Wipers Times' follows Captain Arthur St John's efforts to publish a newspaper for his men on the front lines of World War I. Despite facing constant danger, shortages of materials, and skepticism from superiors, he and his colleagues manage to create a publication that provides much-needed morale and a sense of normalcy amidst the horrors of war.
Critical Reception
The Wipers Times was generally well-received by critics, praised for its sensitive portrayal of a unique aspect of WWI and its blend of humor and poignancy. It resonated with audiences for its heartwarming true story of resilience and the power of communication in the face of adversity.
What Reviewers Say
- A touching and often funny true story about finding light in the darkest of times.
- Praised for its sensitive direction and strong performances.
- Highlights the importance of morale and communication during wartime.
Google audience: Information about Google user reviews is not readily available.
Fun Fact
The newspaper, 'The Wipers Times', was named after the soldiers' pronunciation of Ypres, the Belgian town where it was published.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources