The first World War is in its third year and aerial combat above the Western Front is consuming the nation's favored children at an appalling rate. By early 1917, the average life-span of a British pilot is less than a fortnight. Such losses place a fearsome strain on Gresham, commanding officer of the squadron. Aces High recreates the early days of the Royal Flying Corps with some magnificently staged aerial battles, and sensitive direction presents a moving portrayal of the futilities of war.
Malcolm McDowell
as Maj. John Gresham
Christopher Plummer
as Capt. 'Uncle' Sinclair
Simon Ward
as Lt. Crawford
Peter Firth
as Lt. Stephen Croft
David Wood
as Lt. 'Tommy' Thompson
John Gielgud
as Headmaster
Trevor Howard
as Lieutenant Colonel Silkin
Richard Johnson
as Major Lyle
Ray Milland
as Brigadier General Whale
Gilles Béhat
as Captain Beckenauer
Tim Pigott-Smith
as Major Stoppard
David Daker
as Bennett
