Introduction
Secret Army is a television drama made by the BBC and the Belgian national broadcaster BRT (now VRT) created by Gerard Glaister.
The series tells the story of a fictional Belgian resistance movement in German-occupied Belgium during the Second World War dedicated to returning Allied airmen, usually having been shot down by the Luftwaffe, to Great Britain.
It was made in the UK and Belgium and three series were broadcast on BBC1 between 7 September 1977 and 15 December 1979.
Kessler is a sequel to the series, set in contemporary times.
Outline
Lifeline is challenged by money problems. Albert and Monique devise a solution through the sale of three Rubens masterpieces, which are in a nearby convent, and substituting copies for them. However, at the same time the German occupiers are seeking to get hold of them. Kessler travels to the convent and obtains the paintings. By chance two American airmen happen to stop Kessler’s car. They take Kessler and his companion hostage, remaining unaware of his identity, and force themselves onto Hans and Lena Van Broecken on their barge, so that they can escape However, Lena persuades them to allow her to contact Lifeline, and they are passed down the line. Lifeline realises that if Kessler is killed, it could lead to terrible reprisals. Kessler escapes unharmed, but takes the Van Broeckens in for questioning. Lena throws herself in front of a passing vehicle to avoid questioning, and is killed.
Secret Army Series
You can find a full overview of Secret Army here.
You can find a full index of Secret Army Series 02 here.
Production & Filming Details
- Director(s): Paul Annett.
- Writer(s): Paul Annett.
- Release Date: 08 November 1978.
- Running Time: 50 minutes (per episode).
- Rating: 12.
- Country: UK and Belgium.
- Language: English.
Video Link
