During World War II, a general who daily sends bomber crews on often fatal missions begins to crack.
Genre: Feature Film-Drama
Rating: NR
Release Date: 5-JUN-2007
Media Type: DVD

The wartime memories of surviving World War II bomber squadrons were still crystal clear when this acclaimed drama was released in 1949–one of the first postwar films out of Hollywood to treat the war on emotionally complex terms. Framed by a postwar prologue and epilogue and told as a flashback appreciation of wartime valor and teamwork, the film stars Gregory Peck in one of his finest performances as a callous general who assumes command of a bomber squadron based in England. At first, the new commander has little rapport with the 918th Bomber Group, whose loyalties still belong with their previous commander. As they continue to fly dangerous missions over Germany, however, the group and their new leader develop mutual respect and admiration, until the once-alienated commander feels that his men are part of a family–men whose bravery transcends the rigors of rigid discipline and by-the-book leadership. The film’s now-classic climax, in which the general waits patiently for his squad to return to base–painfully aware that they may not return at all–is one of the most subtle yet emotionally intense scenes of any World War II drama. With Peck in the lead and Dean Jagger doing Oscar-winning work in a crucial supporting role, this was one of veteran director Henry King’s proudest achievements, and it still packs a strong dramatic punch. –Jeff Shannon

This popular academy award winning movie is used in leadership training seminars to demonstrate leadership style and teamwork. It presents a genuine parallel between effective and ineffective leadership. The 918th, a WWII B-17 bomber squadron, under the leadership of General Savage, grew from a fearful, unskilled group with numerous casualties to a confident, highly skilled group with much fewer casualties. The vivid contrast in leadership styles between General Savage and Colonel Davenport dramatically affect the performance of the squadron. This is the significant message of the film. General Davenport, outwardly caring greatly for his men, is reluctant to keep sending them on bombing missions because of high casualties and the extremely low morale. General Davenport, high on the relationship scale, is so concerned with the welfare of his men that he is underleading them i.e. having low expectations and poor training. He is not matching the necessary leadership style to their readiness level of the group. They were low in ability and motivation. General Savage, low on the relationship scale, took command and immediately raised expections and training. Morale increased and so did effectiveness. General Savage’s style matched the readiness of the group. He was demanding and authoritative. He insisted on developing training skills. He was “hands on” and actually went on missions with his men. This movie is also a study of over leadership. It clearly illuminates the consequences of not knowing when it is necessary to move from an strong authoritarian style to a coaching or counseling style once readiness levels improve. Understanding 12 O’Clock High in the context of situational leadership will help any leader become better!

Where to buy cheap prices? -Twelve O’Clock High (Special Edition) $12.24



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