SAN DEMETRIO LONDON is another propaganda piece made by the British during WW2. This one tells of the merchant navy, focusing on a ship scuppered by a German warship and what happens to the survivors on board. The film makes extensive use of miniature effects to depict naval travel and battle, but works best when bringing to life the disparate characters of the small cast. The double act between seasoned engineer Mervyn Johns and a youthful Gordon Jackson is the highlight here, although the tag-along American adds drama. Overall this a solid story, well told, as were so many British films in this genre from the era.
Review of San Demetrio London
