01/27/2012 (0 of 0 found this helpful)

The Great Escape review

A film about how real Allied prisoners of war (POWs) try to escape a German POW camp during World War II. The prisoners work on 3 tunnels nicknamed "Tom," "Dick" and "Harry." One of the main characters, though each one plays a vital role, were Captain Virgil Hilts (Steve McQueen), Flight Lieutenant William 'Willie' Dickes (John Leyton), Lieutenant Bob Hendley (James Garner), Squadron Leader Roger Bartlett (Richard Attenborough), Flying Officer Louis Sedgwick (James Coburn), Captain Ramsey (James Donald) and Flight Lieutenant Danny Velinski (Charles Bronson).

Historical accuracy was authentic and the score was majestic and vivacious. Methods of their escape were ingenious while the men’s cooperation and camaraderie were in full display. Pace of the film was slow during the conversa...

Rating of
3.5/4 

01/16/2012 (0 of 0 found this helpful)

"The Great Escape" by Yojimbo

Based on the true story of a mass break out of Allied POWs from Stalag Luft North, The Great Escape is THE prisoner of war film. This particular camp is populated with an all star cast of thespians, film stars and character actors alike in a story of good old British stiff upper lips and ingenuity. The first half of the film is all about camaraderie and pulling together in adversity with plenty of knockabout humour and easy going charm; even the Camp Commandant is shown as not a bad sort as he is distanced from the Nazis represented by the SS and Gestapo. The second half is a darker affair as the escape begins in earnest and we follow each of the multinational groups of men as they try to make their way through enemy territory. All of the impressive cast pull their weight (although James ...

Rating of
3.5/4