Malta Story (1953)

In the throes of World War II, the strategically significant island of Malta finds itself caught in a tumultuous struggle. The tiny Mediterranean island, a mere 57 miles from Sicily's coast, becomes the stage for an epic fight for control. Its critical location makes it a coveted asset for both the Allies, desperate to keep their supply lines open, and the Axis, eager to seize it for their own advantage. Amidst this maelstrom of conflict, Flight Lieutenant Peter Ross, played by Sir Alec Guinness, an aerial reconnaissance specialist in transit to Cairo, finds himself unexpectedly assigned to the beleaguered island. Alongside the gritty reality of war, replete with authentic reenactments and archival combat footage, Ross's life takes an unexpected turn. In the shadow of the relentless air raids, he meets a local girl, a ray of hope amidst chaos, and love blossoms. His desire to marry her is a testament to the human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity. But life on Malta is fraught with danger and hardship. The island's native population grapples daily not only with bombings but with severe food shortages, their survival reliant on the sporadic, limited access granted by Allied convoys. The film paints a vivid picture of their struggle, their courage, and their endurance, a testament to which was the awarding of the George Cross by King George VI in 1942, a civilian honour equivalent to the Victoria Cross. Throughout the Malta Story, Ross's love and his duty intertwine as he tries to plot enemy movements, his personal happiness hanging in the balance amidst the war-torn landscape. It's a compelling narrative of love, war, and human resilience, set against the backdrop of one of World War II's most pivotal locations.

Malta Story is a drama movie featuring Alec Guinness and directed by Brian Desmond Hurst.

Malta Story is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on The Roku Channel and it's also available on Amazon Prime Video, MGM Plus Amazon Channel, MGM Plus Roku Premium Channel, Paramount Plus Apple TV Channel and fuboTV.