Battle of the River Plate, The (1956)

The Battle of the River Plate (1956), written, produced and directed by Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger.

Aka Pursuit of the Graf Spee.

It's one of Powell & Pressburger's most successful films, but I doubt if fans will rank it among their best. Still it's of interest because, although a patriotic history, the Germans are not demonized, which must have been hard then.

The narrative loosens up a bit post-battle when we have the military and diplomatic maneuvering. This section seems more Powell-like than the rest.

Familiar faces include Anthony Quayle, Bernard Lee, Christopher Lee and Patrick Macnee (later "John Steed").

Brian Easdale gives a rousing maritime score.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/b/bc/Battle_River_Plate_poster.jpg