I need something to drink. Please, woman, ask me to have a drink. The Small Back Room (also known as Hour of Glory) comes from Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger, who also adapted the screenplay based on Nigel Balchin’s novel. The cast includes David Farrar, Kathleen Byron, Jack Hawkins, Leslie Banks, and Michael Gough. Brian Easdale composed the music, and Christopher Challis was in charge of cinematography. With German forces scattering explosive traps along the English coastline, Sammy Rice (Farrar) is given the job of figuring out how to disable these dangerous weapons. However, he first has to confront his struggle with alcohol, which he uses as a way to cope with losing a foot. The Archers have created what's essentially a story about someone finding their way back on track; it’s an exceptionally well-produced drama full of realism and striking black and white visuals. It initially caused disagreement among critics, but that was often the case when Powell was involved, as he himself had doubts about whether this film truly worked. Nevertheless, Pressburger and he seem confident in their approach, returning to more straightforward human stories, and their willingness to examine humanity’s flaws is a powerful and beautiful cinematic achievement. The interactions between Farrar and Byron are filled with sexual tension but also convey deep sadness. The movie shines brightest during the scenes they share together; the settings for their complicated relationship shift from bright and full of promise to dark and depressing, the latter always taking place in Sammy’s gloomy apartment, which is also the location of a memorably filmed dream sequence that shows his inner turmoil. Other military personnel either stand stiffly or sit at desks speaking in formal language; they all share the problem that the Germans have devised an unpleasant bombing strategy that needs to be dealt with immediately. Will Sammy manage to succeed for both the war effort and his own mental well-being? You’ll need to watch it to find out—it's excellent filmmaking from start to finish. 8/10

Source on TMDB