Rating PG
Length 2h52
Release 08.09.1963
Director John Sturges
About During the Second World War, a large group of imprisoned Allied soldiers, known for breaking out of prison, are confined in an escape-proof prison camp.
Moon: no moon sighting
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime
Trailer:
The Good
- That music. It gives you the sense of the humour that will be shown. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a serious piece of War drama, but that boyish, rebellious humour is akin to the music that plays.
- The cast is incredible. Watching this as a child, I knew the cast was something special. However, it’s only as I’ve grown up and seen them in other projects I’ve realised how incredible it was to get them all on one project.
- The reality of what happens and the authenticity really does make this a time testing film. Having so many cast that not only took part in the war, but spent time in POW camps really helps.
- This film wouldn’t be what it is without Steve McQueen. Hell, he’s so charming that I almost forgive him for shoehorning that bloody motorbike into the narrative.
The Bad
- Where are out modern day equivalents to these power house actors. Yes, I’d image having all these names in the one film is the same as Infinity War. That’s in name value though. Those Avengers don’t even have a pinkies worth of talent.
The Ugly
- It’s long. At 2 hours 52, it might be fair to say too long. At least for regular viewing. I can’t watch it any more than once every decade or so.
Don’t get me wrong, it is an excellent film. It also can easily justify it’s screen time. However, who has time for three hour films?!
Final Thoughts
Of all the films you must watch before you die, this needs to be number one.
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