Malcolm McDowell plays a World War I air ace, in charge of the elite 76 Squadron. Outwardly a bastion of courage, McDowell dies a little every time one of his boys is killed. To steel his nerves, he takes to drink, which has an adverse effect on his abilities.
Christopher Plummer staunchly portrays McDowell's commanding officer. Aces High is a remake of
Journey's End (1930), which in turn was based on a play by R.C. Sheriff. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide