The Great Escape - Review

“Colonel Von Luger, it is the sworn duty of all officers to try to escape.” – A review of The Great Escape. 

The war film genre is one of the most devastating and thought provoking in history, and none more so than those based on true stories. Released in 1963, The Great Escape stands, with good reason, as one of the most celebrated films in its genre of all time. Directed by John Sturges and starring an incredible cast including Steve McQueen, James Garner and Richard Attenborough, the film is based on the true story of the mass escape by Allied prisoners of war from a German POW camp during World War Two. It blends suspense and action with a true feeling of camaraderie and loyalty, making it a true cinematic classic.

The film is set in a high security German prison camp and follows a group of Allied airmen as they plan a daring escape which is designed to disrupt the Nazi war effort. Meticulous planning, clever tricks, and the collective goal of escape bind the men together, forging alliances and friendships in the face of true evil. Each character brings their own unique skills and ideas to the plan, and as the tension builds, the audience cannot help but hold their breathe as they are fully invested until the very end.

With a cast like this, its no wonder that the performances are so remarkable. McQueen’s portrayal of Captain Virgil Hilts is nothing short of iconic. The rebellious American’s legendary motorcycle chase sequence is one of my favourite scenes from cinema overall, and its still talked about today for good reason. Richard Attenborough is calm and strategic as Roger Bartlett, adding gravitas to the film, whilst James Garner brings a charming and witty Hendley to life. It’s the genuine, moving bond between the prisoners which really makes this film for me, as it shows the strength of human spirit, resilience, and ingenuity of people under even the worst circumstances.

There is a balance in this film between the ever-present threat of discovery, underlying tension caused by the stress of capture, and the light-hearted banter between friends, which really drives home the fact that this is a film based on real events. The pacing is deliberate but not slow, allowing the viewer to get to know each character and become fully invested in them. The film also does an excellent job of conveying the feelings of locations; the tunnels are claustrophobic and atmospheric, whilst the countryside feels vast and too open to be safe.

The score overall is also brilliant, but the main theme is instantly recognisable and synonymous now with heroism and bravery, even after decades have passed since its release. The music really enhances the story as it heightens moments of hope and heartbreak, which contributes to the lasting impact and legacy of the film.

Speaking of legacy, it’s impossible to ignore the impact this film had. It’s so much more than just a war film, it’s a story of unity, hope and human spirit, and it has, for good reason, gone on to inspire countless films and TV shows. It masterfully blends suspense, tension, humour, and tragedy to ensure that its place as a cultural touchstone is protected.

The Great Escape is an incredibly crafted film which combines thrilling storytelling, unforgettable performances, and masterful cinematography to create something truly special. Its ability to pay tribute to the courage of those who lived through such a dark time and yet still be entertaining and inspiring, is an incredible feat. This is a film that I genuinely believe everyone should watch at least once in their lifetime.

Written by Tam Page

Posted by Mr. Tomney

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