Storm Over the Nile (1955)
Andrew Marton directed Storm Over the Nile, which is an action/outdoor entertainment film with characteristics of the Second World War as well as the North African region. The picture commences with a group of British soldiers presenting a faceless front from the inside as they sail the perilous Nile river to seize a shipment of gold by the Germans meant to fuel the Nazi war. Following the relentless character of Major Gordon, or Anthony Steel to give him his proper name, it does not take long before the various battle scenes interspersed with stout camera work and the picturesque Egyptian scenery become dizzying.
There is also another element of the film called Storm Over the Nile that could be observed and this pertains to the context of the story, which is the same as the heart of the times. It is known however how the film treatment deals with the concept of allegiance, bravery and how soldiers delicately grapple with morality in times of struggle. It also depicted how British and native forces fought side by side thereby highlighting the spirit of togetherness. In this particular production, great effort towards grand scale and ambitious set pieces was successfully executed so that the Nile river and its vicinity was pictorially animated.
What draws my attention and brings me to Storm Over the Nile is the fact that this film has traces of adventure coupled with a historical drama and so it is an interesting film that appeals to the fans of war stories. The theme of duty and self-sacrifice as portrayed in this film is very touching as it also depicts inner battles of the characters as they face the torments of war. This may not be as famous as other titles from its heady age, yet action-packed as it is, and dramatic in story telling, it’s a treat for the lovers of older adventure films.
