Tunes of Glory (1960)

"Tunes of Glory" is a captivating tale of power dynamics and personal vendettas set within the austere backdrop of a Scottish military regiment. At the heart of the story is Major Jock Sinclair, a man whose name has become synonymous with the regiment itself. Sinclair, once a boy piper, ascended to the position of acting Colonel during the tumultuous times of World War II. Known for his affable approach and charisma, he is revered by both his peers and subordinates. Upon the regiment's return to Scotland, the entire base is abuzz with the assumption that the acting Colonel will be officially appointed as the Commanding Officer. However, the arrival of an unfamiliar face, Lieutenant Colonel Basil Barrow, shatters these assumptions. Barrow, a former member of the regiment who left as a young subaltern, has made his military career in staff functions far removed from the rigours of the frontline. His strict disciplinary methods starkly contrast Sinclair's relaxed leadership style. The stage is set for a power struggle as Barrow attempts to imprint his command style on the regiment, wrestling with the challenge of winning over Sinclair's loyal subordinates. The tension escalates as Sinclair, now Second-in-Command, grapples with his reduced role and the intrusion of Barrow's rule. His personal life, too, becomes a battlefield, as he navigates complex relationships with his daughter, his girlfriend, and the other officers in the Mess. As the plot thickens, the rivalry between Sinclair and Barrow spirals towards a tragic climax, their personal ambitions and egos clashing to the haunting echo of bagpipes - those ever-present 'Tunes of Glory'. This film masterfully explores the intricate dance of authority, loyalty, and personal pride within the cloistered confines of a military institution.

Tunes of Glory is a drama movie featuring Alec Guinness.

Tunes of Glory is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Tubi TV and it's also available on Criterion Channel.

It is also possible to buy Tunes of Glory on Amazon Video and Apple TV.