Synopsis

By Moonlight tells the incredible story of Barbara Bertram, the Sussex housewife who became the clandestine housemother to 200 French Resistance intelligence agents during the Second World War.

At the outbreak of War, Barbara Bertram was leading a quiet life in rural Sussex with her husband, the writer Major Anthony Bertram, and their two small boys. She was totally unprepared for the unique role that was thrust upon her.

French Resistance intelligence agents comprised both men and women. They risked torture and death to be flown in and out of France on moonlit nights during the three years between 1941 and Liberation. Known as Madame Barbara, she provided reassuring home comforts and hospitality, while they in return provided her with some of her fondest memories.

Her love and admiration for the French agents who risked their lives with such courage, shines through as brightly as the full moon that was so essential to
the 'operations'.

In the film Barbara struggles to find balance: between her duty to her country, at war with Nazi Germany; and the love she holds for one man in particular, against her own husband, whom she admires most of all.

The Westland Lysander aircraft takes a major role in this touching piece. Responsible for the lives of so many, the aircraft was known as the 'Bird of Passage' and was affectionately nicknamed the 'Lizzie' by those who flew her. Without this extraordinary aircraft such undercover operations could never have been possible.

This film captures the courage and bravery of all those who took part in the Resistance movement, and highlights the humanity and courage of those who passed through Bignor Manor.

© 2008 Brodie Films Ltd. In accordance with the Copyright, Design and Patents Act 1988. All rights reserved.