Lieut. Daring R.N. is a weird, dusty relic

Is this worth your time?

Look, if you need fast-paced action or sharp, snappy dialogue, skip this. It’s a dry, very British affair that moves at the speed of a rusted anchor. But, if you like watching people try to keep their stiff upper lips while the world is supposedly burning down around them, you might find some charm here.

It's definitely not for the modern crowd that gets bored if someone isn't running or exploding every five minutes. ⚓

The Vibe

The whole thing feels like it was filmed in a library that smells like old pipe tobacco. Everyone is so polite! Even when they are talking about major crises, they sound like they’re discussing the weather or perhaps a slightly overcooked roast. It’s almost funny how serious they take the smallest gestures.

I found myself staring at the background extras more than the main actors. You can tell they are just trying to stay in frame without tripping over their own boots. One guy in the back left of the bridge scene has this look of pure confusion that lasts for a good thirty seconds.

Odd Little Moments

There is a scene involving a map that feels like it goes on for an eternity. The way the characters point at the coastlines—it’s like they’re trying to conjure up a geography lesson instead of a military strategy. Why is nobody actually doing anything? It’s all talk, talk, talk about the Navy and honor.

It reminded me a little bit of the pacing in The Boiling Point, where you’re just waiting for the pressure to actually blow, but it mostly just simmers. Except here, the simmering doesn’t even really lead to a boil. It just stays tepid.

Final Thoughts (or lack thereof)

I’m not entirely sure why I finished it. Maybe it was the hats? The hats are quite something. They look so heavy. I kept thinking, how do they keep those things on their heads while walking around on a ship that is supposed to be in rough seas? The sea never looks particularly rough, either. It’s more like a polite pond. 🌊

Don’t go in expecting The Hunchback of Notre Dame level drama or anything remotely exciting. It’s just a bunch of guys in white uniforms talking about their duty. If that sounds like a good time, have at it. If not, maybe go re-watch something with a bit more… grit.

I’m still wondering about that guy in the background. Was he okay? He looked like he really needed a sandwich.