Fresh
The aerodynamic issues in the movie may now be antiquated, but the excitement and beauty of early jet aviation are still irresistible.
David Denby, New Yorker
The Sound Barrier
1952 · 1h 57m · Approved
Drama, Romance, War
Directed by
David Lean
Overview
A young RAF pilot tests his father-in-law’s prototype supersonic aircraft to the limit, at a time of intense development in the field of aviation, just as commercial jet airliners are about to enter service.
Director and cast
- David Lean Director
- Ralph Richardson as John Ridgefield
- Ann Todd as Susan Garthwaite
- Nigel Patrick as Tony Garthwaite
- John Justin as Philip Peel
- Dinah Sheridan as Jess Peel
- Joseph Tomelty as Will
- Denholm Elliott as Christopher Ridgefield
- Jack Allen as 'Windy'
- Ralph Michael as Fletcher
- Leslie Phillips as Controller
Critics on Rotten Tomatoes
Top critics, in their words
80%
Tomatometer
Fresh
This must be said about this picture: it soars far above its clumsy tag and it comes pretty close to being the most exalting of contemporary films.
Bosley Crowther, New York Times
Rotten
Unfortunately, Terence Rattigan's script, while solidly structured, never probes beyond the basic conceit that an obsession which works towards the glory of mankind in general may wreak havoc on private lives.
Geoff Andrew, Time Out
Rotten
Public excitement over jet travel helped make David Lean's 1952 British feature a big hit, though its science doesn't wash and its majestic aerial sequences are uneasily wedded to a starchy familial drama.
J. R. Jones, Chicago Reader
Fresh
Technically, artistically and emotionally, this is a topflight British offering.
Variety Staff, Variety
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