Rent Hell Is for Heroes (1962)

Surprisingly Gritty Combat Film - Hell Is for Heroes review by GI

For its time this is a very gritty Second World War combat film with none of the usual 'Boys Own' adventure storylines but a story of battle hardened soldiers facing insurmountable odds. It's clearly a star vehicle for Steve McQueen although his character of Reese is a deeply flawed and unlikeable one probably matching McQueen's renowned difficult personality. Set in France in 1944 is follows a battle weary American squad, hoping for a well earned leave, but sent back on the line where they are expected to hold a large section with only a few men. A new squad member, Reese, is a sullen, unfriendly soldier who is obviously highly experienced and ultimately leads the attack on a German pillbox. There's a great support cast of Harry Guardino, Fess Parker, James Coburn and the singer Bobby Darin although the addition of comedian Bob Newhart is a misfire. A good solid war film, B movie in structure but now a film from director Don Siegel that has attained cult status. Well worth seeking out if you've not seen it.