Rent The Great Escape (1963)

WWII Epic. - The Great Escape review by Steve

For 15 years after WWII, UK cinema told its war stories, usually in b&w with a cast of great British stalwarts. In the ’60s, the Hollywood studios remade them as blockbusters. This is in Deluxe colour and Panavision. John Sturges is a major US director of action films leading a lavish production, shot in genuine locations.

And there’s a big Hollywood star in Steve McQueen. The narrative is actually more satisfying than those ‘50s UK films. It’s a loose adaptation of a non fiction book about a mass breakout from a German POW camp; but isn’t grim realism. The mood is sometimes quite cartoonish, yet the US screenwriters create a coherent environment

It sustains interest over an epic three hours of skilful storytelling, sardonic comedy and slow burning suspense. Credit is also due to Elmer Bernstein for his famous score which skilfully sets the tone so the darker moods don't prevail. What UK cinema contributes is that phenomenal support company of actors.

My pick is Donald Pleasence as the self-effacing forger, going blind. The only casting blunder is James Coburn as an Aussie larrikin. Everyone remembers the action climax with McQueen hanging from the wire on the Swiss border, but it’s the relationships which most endure. Sure, it’s Hollywoodised- but still a heartfelt tribute to the prisoners’ bravery and ingenuity.