Big screen hopes for the story of gay WW2 lovers

Andy Vallentine, a filmmaker, is on a mission to bring the poignant love story of two men from World War Two to the big screen. The men, Gilbert Bradley and Gordon Bowsher, exchanged hundreds of heartfelt letters during a time when being gay was not only frowned upon but could also lead to severe punishment. Their letters, which are now displayed at the Oswestry Museum in Shropshire, caught Vallentine's attention, prompting him to acquire the rights to their story. In 2022, he created an award-winning short film based on their correspondence, and now he is eager to expand it into a feature-length film. Vallentine shared, 'I am a gay filmmaker, and I felt a need to tell that story. ' He has a personal connection to the history of World War Two, as his grandfather was a glider pilot during the war. This connection, combined with his passion for history and storytelling, inspired him to delve into the lives of Gilbert and Gordon. In 1939, Gilbert was stationed at Park Hall Camp in Oswestry, where he was already in love with Gordon, whom he had met on a houseboat holiday in Devon in 1938. Their relationship blossomed through letters, but it eventually faded by 1945. One particularly emotional letter from Gordon urged Gilbert to destroy all of his letters, saying, 'I want all my letters destroyed. Please darling do this for me. ' This request highlights the fear and secrecy that surrounded their love during that era. One of their letters contained a wish for a future where their love could be openly celebrated, stating, 'Wouldn't it be wonderful if all our letters could be published in the future in a more enlightened time? ' Vallentine was deeply moved by their story and the historical significance it holds. After reading about the letters in a BBC article, he traveled to Oswestry to meet Mark Hignett, the museum curator who played a crucial role in preserving the letters and uncovering their true nature. Vallentine expressed, 'For me, what is the most unique aspect is just the amount of letters that Gilbert kept. ' He emphasized that gay individuals have always existed, often hiding their true selves due to societal pressures. The letters provide a rare glimpse into the relationship of these two men during a time when such love was often hidden away. Vallentine is currently in the process of pitching the film to various producers and hopes to return with a full production team to bring Gilbert and Gordon's story to life. He envisions filming in Oswestry or Shropshire, where their love story began. When asked about casting, he mentioned Jonathon Bailey as a potential actor but remains open to other suggestions. This film aims to shed light on a love story that has been overlooked in history, showcasing the resilience and beauty of love in the face of adversity.