Leslie Howard, in his last screen appearance, plays visionary aircraft designer R.J. Mitchell. This powerful war drama tells the story of Mitchell's struggle against opposition to develop his revolutionary fighter design and eventually his own failing health. Together with test pilot Geoffrey Crisp (David Niven) Mitchell succeeds in getting his inspirational design into production. The Spitfire was the most successful warplane of it's generation; the very symbol and image of British pride and power, as the killer fighter of the decisive air battle of World War 2, the Battle of Britain. Powerful performances from two fine actors and a majestic music score by William Walton make this a film not to be missed.