Into the Storm (HBO)

About Into the Storm (HBO)

Into the Storm is a 2009 biographical film about Winston Churchill and his leadership during World War II. This drama picks up shortly after Churchill has become Prime Minister in 1940, amidst the chaos of a world war. The film offers unique insight into Churchill's defiance against Hitler’s army, his leadership style, and his journey of forging an extremely solid and important relationship with the people of Britain.

Making / Production

The film was produced by HBO Films, BBC Films, and Scott Free Productions. It was directed by Thaddeus O’Sullivan and written by Hugh Whitemore. The film is a sequel to the 2002 television film, The Gathering Storm, and showcases a more comprehensive and detailed examination of Churchill's leadership during the most challenging period in Britain's history.

Actors

• Brendan Gleeson: Playing the leading role of Winston Churchill, Gleeson brilliantly captures the essence of Churchill as a determined and passionate leader. His performance captivates the audience as he faces the challenges of war with unbroken spirit.
• Janet McTeer: In the role of Clementine Churchill, McTeer delivers an exceptional performance, portraying the unwavering support of Churchill’s wife during these difficult times.
• James D'Arcy: Playing the character of Jock Colville, D’Arcy provides a touch of humanity and perspective amidst the political turmoil surrounding Churchill.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film is not filmed in chronological order. It comprises of flashbacks that Churchill has of the war, while he's writing his memoir six years after WWII ended.
• The film is shot in South Africa, not Britain where the actual events took place.

Awards

The film had widespread critical acclaim, notably Brendan Gleeson won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Miniseries or a Movie for his role as Winston Churchill.

Quotes

• "I have nothing to offer but blood, toil, tears, and sweat.” - Winston Churchill
• "There is something that I fear more than bombs... and that is the photographers." - Winston Churchill

Music, Soundtrack

• The music for Into the Storm was provided by Howard Goodall, who was also a BAFTA TV Award nominee for his exceptional music orchestration for the movie.