A Matter of Life and Death Review- By Michael Carlisle

Title: A Matter of Life and Death
Year: 1946
Director(s): Powell & Pressburger
Country: UK
Language: English

The British called it A Matter of Life and Death, The Americans retitled it Stairway to Heaven. Powell wrote it in his biography that he thought the Americans had missed the point. At the time, British Critics were upset that the film might be too pro-American, some others assumed it was propaganda since nationalities of the Axis (German, Italian, Japanese) were not portrayed in the film's version of Heaven. Despite the controversy, the film remains a treasure today. 

Returning to England from a bombing run in May 1945, flyer Peter Carter's (David Niven) plane is damaged and his parachute ripped to shreds. He jumps, preferring this to burning up with his plane. He wakes up in the surf, though it was certainly his time to die. There was a mixup in heaven; they couldn't find him in all that fog. "The conductor" finds him, but he is in love with an American and does not wish to die. Therefore he must argue for his life in front of a celestial court. 

Powell and Pressburger have made a visionary picture, which stretches the imagination. It is fantastical; an incredibly odd film that never loses sight of its message regarding humanity and love. The Directors push the limit of what was technically possible at the time, touting impressive visuals and an overwhelmingly beautiful, yet convincing, atmosphere. The story and characters are not only entrancing, but hold a great deal of depth and sophistication as well.

In addition to the enchanting descriptions of love, life and death, the picture boasts an impressive analogy regarding post-war US-UK relations. Before WWII the UK had been a world superpower for over 190 years, however Nazi Germany left the nation in shambles after WII and thus the US seized their superpower status. The US & UK had great tension towards one another, however A Matter of Life and Death was meant to marry both nations, claiming that  one could not live without the other.

In conclusion, A Matter of Life and Death is nothing short of a marvel. I found myself moved by the sensational sets and Jack Cardiff's rich photography. The chemistry between the two main characters is palpable, their love for one another extends beyond the screen. Mixed in some sly humor and you've got a real treat that must be seen. Praise it! 5/5