Common Sense Media Review
By Alistair Lawrence
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
1950s British WWII drama has wartime violence, racist term.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
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Where to Watch
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The Dam Busters
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
THE DAM BUSTERS dramatizes the true story of a British World War II operation, designed by Doctor B. N. Wallis (Michael Redgrave), to destroy six German dams.
Is It Any Good?
This wartime classic brings to life a proud and pivotal moment in British military history, when a unique bombing raid sought to deal a blow to Nazi Germany by destroying six of its industrial dams. Released in 1955, The Dam Busters stays faithful to the real-life period of history that inspired it, unlike more recent World War II movie adaptations such as Operation Mincemeat. Which brings its own issues. Viewers shouldn't expect much diversity, for example, as well as some very problematic language. But what the movie does supply is a series of iconic performances from celebrated stars of screen and stage, such as Richard Todd, who leads the air offensive as Wing Commander Guy Gibson, and a studied performance of perfectionist Wallis from Redgrave. The movie's now-startling use of the "N" word is shocking but also historically accurate, referencing both the name of Gibson's dog and the codeword named after his pet -- newer versions of the film often re-dub the name to something less offensive. So while some social norms, as well as ideas of what cinematic action sequences should entail, have evolved, The Dam Busters remains a well-crafted portrayal that does justice to the memory of its heroes.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the historical context of The Dam Busters. Did you know anything about this story? Can you believe it's based on real events? Has the film inspired you to learn more about WWII? How to talk to kids about violence, crime, and war.
Some versions of the film include the use of the "N" word, which was the real-life name of Gibson's dog and was also used as a codename. Discuss why some versions remove this slur, while others choose to keep it in. What do you think the use of this racist term says about society at the time? How to talk with kids about racism.
Which characters showed courage, perseverance, and teamwork? Why are these such important character strengths?
What role did women play in the movie? How might this film have been different if it was remade today? Why representation matters in kids' media.
How was drinking and smoking depicted in the film? Were they glamorized? How has our behavior when it comes to drinking and smoking changed from when the movie was set?
Movie Details
- In theaters : July 16, 1955
- On DVD or streaming : June 14, 2010
- Cast : Richard Todd , Michael Redgrave , Ursula Jeans
- Director : Michael Anderson
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Warner Bros.
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : History
- Character Strengths : Courage , Perseverance , Teamwork
- Run time : 124 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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