The Small Back Room (1949) directed by Powell and Pressburger, marked their return to Alexander Korda after a successful period at Rank. Critically acclaimed, the film was nominated for a BAFTA for Best Film. Starring David Farrar as British scientist Sammy Rice and Kathleen Byron as the dept secretary and Sammy's girlfriend. During the Second World War, scientist Sammy Rice (David Farrar) works at a British research unit set up to solve the enemy's methods of attack. Embittered after losing a foot in a bomb blast, Sammy is increasingly seeking solace in drink. However, a budding romance with his secretary, Susan (Kathleen Byron), and the challenge of analysing a new German bomb provide him with a new sense of meaning.