Danger UXB
Danger UXB is a 1979 British television series developed by John Hawkesworth and starring Anthony Andrews as Lieutenant Brian Ash, an officer in the Royal Engineers. The programme is titled and partly based on the memoirs of Major A. B. Hartley, M.B.E, RE, Unexploded Bomb - The Story of Bomb Disposal, with episodes written by Hawkesworth and four screenwriters. The series chronicles the exploits of the fictional 97 Tunnelling Company which, as a result of thousands of unexploded bombs in London during the Blitz, has become a bomb disposal unit. As with all his fellow officers, Ash must for the most part learn the techniques and procedures of disarming and destroying the UXBs through experience, repeatedly confronted with more cunning and deadlier technological advances in aerial bomb fusing. The storylines were primarily military, with a romantic thread between Ash and an inventor's married daughter, and other human interest vignettes.
Insights
Plot Summary
Set during the Blitz of World War II, Danger UXB follows the harrowing experiences of a British Bomb Disposal Company. The series chronicles the dangerous and often heroic work of officers and men tasked with disarming unexploded bombs amidst the relentless German air raids on London. It delves into the psychological toll of constant danger, the camaraderie forged under fire, and the profound impact of war on the home front.
Critical Reception
Danger UXB was widely praised for its authentic portrayal of a lesser-known aspect of the war effort, its historical accuracy, and its tense, dramatic storytelling. The series is considered a landmark in British television drama for its unflinching look at the bravery and sacrifices made by bomb disposal units, earning it a significant following and critical acclaim.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its gripping realism and historical accuracy.
- Commended for its powerful performances and dramatic tension.
- Recognized for shedding light on the vital but often overlooked role of bomb disposal units.
Google audience: Audience reception is generally very positive, with viewers often highlighting the show's authenticity, compelling storylines, and emotional depth. Many appreciate its detailed depiction of wartime challenges and the bravery of the characters.
Fun Fact
The series was meticulously researched, with former bomb disposal officers consulted to ensure accuracy in the depiction of procedures and the equipment used.
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