SEAMAN FRANK GOES BACK TO SEA [Main Title]

Dramatised national savings appeal built around the image of 'Seaman' Frank Laskier.

Hard life of merchant seamen. Ships' crews waiting to be signed up for another voyage. The merchant service lacks the glamour of the Royal Navy but, nevertheless, employs men of the finest quality. The film features one-legged 'Seaman Frank', who has had some success as a writer and broadcaster, being hailed as an "English Conrad", a man who can make words "burn and sear". Frank has spurned worldly success to continue in his chosen profession. He feels that many are not yet fully committed to the war, and he wishes to heighten the national awareness of the Battle of the Atlantic and the rôle of the merchant seaman. In a lengthy monologue Frank eulogises the physical hardships and spiritual rewards of life at sea and perorates against the German nation. The sailor will go through "trials unimaginable" to bring food to Britain, but he asks that in return, the people forgo some small comforts. "Won't you save, won't you think of our ships, won't you think of the men who are alone in them - put that money away, put it into savings certificates. The film ends as a convoy leaves port, accompanied by 'Rule Britannia' on soundtrack.

35mm