A Second World War hero's powerful novel documenting his own ordeals as a fighter pilot and prisoner of war became the inspiration behind one of cinema's most iconic war epics. Australian Paul Brickhill worked as a journalist before signing up to serve after Germany invaded France. He was shot down over Tunisia in 1943 and taken captive as a prisoner of war.
During his imprisonment, he observed fellow POWs devise and execute a bold breakout attempt, only to face capture and execution. This tragedy compelled him to record their courageous deeds for posterity. This formed the basis for his celebrated novel, The Great Escape, published four years after the conflict concluded, which would later inspire the epic film adaptation.
The Great Escape has earned recognition as one of the finest war films ever produced, boasting a remarkable cast including Steve McQueen, James Garner, Richard Attenborough, and Charles Bronson. Released in 1963 under director John Sturges' guidance, the film became one of that year's biggest commercial triumphs and maintains a massive devoted fanbase even now.
The Story Behind the Film
It chronicles the compelling story of Allied servicemen imprisoned in Germany throughout the Second World War. Determined to escape captivity, the prisoners orchestrate an ambitious plan that will not only deliver their freedom but also distract their Nazi guards from a vital battle while they search for the escaped men. The lead characters are US Captain Virgil Hilts, played by McQueen, and British Squadron Leader Roger Bartlett, played by Attenborough. Together they devise a brilliant plan to tunnel beneath the prison perimeter to escape, but as their strategy unfolds, the risks become far more dangerous than anyone had imagined.
Initial Reception and Legacy
Decades after its hugely successful cinema run, The Great Escape remains firmly established as a timeless film classic. Yet it secured nominations for only one Academy Award for Best Editing, and one Golden Globe for Best Picture. Surprisingly, despite now being considered one of the most critically acclaimed films of all time, The Great Escape initially received lukewarm reviews. One reviewer criticised the choice of colour photography, while another contemporary review said: 'But for much longer than is artful or essential, The Great Escape grinds out its tormenting story without a peek beneath the surface of any man, without a real sense of human involvement. It's a strictly mechanical adventure with make-believe men.'
Nowadays, though, the picture holds an outstanding 94 per cent approval rating on the film review aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes. One reviewer said: 'McQueen's thrilling motorcycle ride has long been the stuff of cinematic legend, but the movie is packed with countless memorable episodes of this caliber.' Another viewer added: 'This is one of the all-time great war movies, a PoW adventure from director John Sturges that celebrates the indomitable spirit of the Allied forces even when their backs were to the wall.'
While a third wrote: 'Boasting an all-star cast, headed by a terrific Steve McQueen, Great Escape is one of the greatest, most enjoyable WWII adventures Hollywood has made.' A fourth said: 'One of the truly great epic war films.'
Even decades later, audiences remain utterly captivated by the picture. One fan recalled: 'I watched this movie at our local Picture Theatre when I was only 8 years old with my late mum, dad and brother — it was one of the most wonderful and best action packed movies I've ever seen in my life! Now being in my 60's I still like to watch it from time to time and it never gets less enjoyable.'
Another said: 'Classic and epic movie. Stellar cast all excels in character. Amazing that it all happened and that the movie runs parallel with the original book by Paul Brickhill. Very good cinematography. Lots of action, suspense, drama and anticipation. This is a must see.' Meanwhile, a third praised: 'Superb war film that ranks as one of the very best of all time, thanks to a brilliant cast and excellent direction by John Sturges. The actors are excellent across the board, with many being military and war veterans themselves, thus bringing authenticity to their roles.'
The Great Escape is available to rent on Amazon Prime.
