Samuel Johnson once asked, “What enemy would invade Scotland, where there is nothing to be got?” He must never have seen I Know Where I’m Going (1945). In their fifth examination of a Powell and Pressburger film, Mike and Dan talk about what makes this cinematic Scotland a more authentic place than England and how the film’s heroine gains maturity and depth once she abandons her itinerary. Dan brings up an American film he considers a sibling to this one; Mike praises the film’s economy; both wish they could go to the cèilidh. You can’t marry the British Chemical Company, but you can dance the Scottish, so give it a listen!

Samuel Johnson’s and James Boswell’s accounts of their travels in Scotland are a terrific read and tie in wonderfully with the film. You may also enjoy Neil Oliver’s History of Scotland, based on his BBC series.

Follow us on X or Letterboxd. Incredible bumper music by John Deley.

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