The acclaimed war film The Eagle Has Landed, featuring an all-star cast including Michael Caine, Robert Duvall, and Donald Sutherland, is currently available for streaming on BBC iPlayer. This classic 1977 movie has garnered a loyal following among cinema enthusiasts, who frequently describe it as a gripping and unconventional entry in the war genre.
A Plot of Intrigue and Suspense
Based on Jack Higgins' 1975 novel of the same name, the film unfolds in 1943 and centres on a daring German plot to kidnap British Prime Minister Winston Churchill during a visit to a quiet English village. The narrative follows Colonel Kurt Steiner, portrayed by Michael Caine, as he leads a team of paratroopers disguised as Polish allies, with assistance from Irish agent Liam Devlin. Their mission initially proceeds smoothly but faces complications when an American soldier's uniform is accidentally revealed during a rescue operation, drawing U.S. forces into the fray and heightening the tension.
Critical Reception and Fan Acclaim
While The Eagle Has Landed did not receive major awards or universal critical acclaim upon its release, it has earned a dedicated fanbase over the decades. On the review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a solid 71 percent rating, with many viewers praising its engaging storyline and memorable performances.
One enthusiast noted, "It's a brilliant lazy afternoon war film packed with actors you recognise and a wonderful performance from Larry Hagman." Another viewer shared, "Watched the film for the first time recently. It was better than I thought. Great cast and moves quickly." A third review highlighted, "This is as much a thriller as a 'war movie'. It has great characters, a wonderful soundtrack and has an authentic vibe throughout."
Praise for Performances and Direction
Fans have particularly commended the stellar cast, with one stating, "Michael Caine and Robert Duvall are two of my favorite actors of all time and yet somehow, Donald Sutherland totally steals the show." The film is also noted for its unique perspective, as another review pointed out: "It's unique in that it presents the story fairly exclusively from the point-of-view of the 'enemy.'"
Directed by John Sturges, known for classics like The Great Escape, the film is described as a confident production that doesn't aim to reinvent the genre but delivers a compelling narrative. One fan summarised, "A powerful beginning, great build-up, an interesting side-story to keep us interested and great finishing action sequences make for a World War II movie that is well worth seeing."
Streaming Availability and Legacy
The Eagle Has Landed remains a beloved title for those seeking a mix of action, espionage, and historical drama. Its availability on BBC iPlayer offers a new opportunity for audiences to discover or revisit this cinematic gem. As one simple yet enthusiastic review put it, "One of the best action war movies." This film continues to captivate viewers with its blend of suspenseful plotting and standout performances, ensuring its place as a noteworthy entry in the war film canon.
