Detailed Summary
Introduction and Setting
The Great Escape is a 1963 American epic war film directed by John Sturges, based on Paul Brickhill’s 1950 non-fiction book of the same name. The film stars Steve McQueen, James Garner, Richard Attenborough, Charles Bronson, and James Coburn. Set during World War II, the film tells the story of a group of Allied prisoners of war (POWs) who plan a mass escape from a high-security German POW camp.
The Story Unfolds
Arrival at Stalag Luft III
The film begins with the arrival of several Allied airmen at the newly constructed, supposedly escape-proof Stalag Luft III POW camp. The camp is designed to hold the most determined escapees from various other camps. The prisoners quickly start planning an escape, led by “Big X” Roger Bartlett (Richard Attenborough).
The Escape Plan
Bartlett devises an ambitious plan to dig three tunnels (nicknamed “Tom,” “Dick,” and “Harry”) to maximize their chances of success. The goal is to break out 250 men simultaneously. Key members of the team include Hilts “The Cooler King” (Steve McQueen), Hendley “The Scrounger” (James Garner), and Danny “The Tunnel King” (Charles Bronson).
The Climax and Resolution
Building the Tunnels
The prisoners work tirelessly, facing numerous challenges, including disposing of the dirt from the tunnels, avoiding detection by the German guards, and securing necessary materials. Hilts, known for his repeated escape attempts and time in solitary confinement (“the cooler”), becomes crucial for his reconnaissance and diversion tactics.
The Great Escape
The climax of the film occurs when the escape attempt is finally made. Only 76 prisoners manage to get through the tunnel before it is discovered. The escapees scatter across Europe, attempting to reach neutral countries or Allied lines. The film follows several escapees, showing their various fates.
The Conclusion
Aftermath of the Escape
The film concludes with a mix of triumph and tragedy. Of the 76 escapees, 50 are captured and executed by the Gestapo, including Bartlett. Only a few successfully reach safety, including Sedgwick (James Coburn) and Danny (Charles Bronson). Hilts is recaptured and returned to the camp, where he is sent back to solitary confinement but remains undaunted.
Movie Ending
The Great Escape ends with a sobering reflection on the cost of the escape attempt. Despite the high number of casualties, the bravery and determination of the prisoners highlight their indomitable spirit and the human desire for freedom.
Post-Credits Scene
There are no post-credits scenes in The Great Escape.
Type of Movie
The Great Escape is an epic war film that combines elements of action, drama, and thriller, focusing on themes of courage, ingenuity, and resilience in the face of adversity.
Cast
- Steve McQueen as Captain Virgil Hilts “The Cooler King”
- James Garner as Flight Lieutenant Bob Hendley “The Scrounger”
- Richard Attenborough as Squadron Leader Roger Bartlett “Big X”
- Charles Bronson as Flight Lieutenant Danny Velinski “The Tunnel King”
- James Coburn as Flying Officer Louis Sedgwick “The Manufacturer”
- Donald Pleasence as Flight Lieutenant Colin Blythe “The Forger”
- James Donald as Group Captain Ramsey “The SBO”
Film Music and Composer
The film’s score was composed by Elmer Bernstein, whose music enhances the film’s dramatic tension and adventurous spirit. The iconic main theme is particularly memorable and has become synonymous with the film.
Filming Locations
The Great Escape was filmed in various locations, including:
- Bavaria, Germany: For the exterior scenes of the POW camp.
- Fussen, Bavaria: For various outdoor scenes.
- The Bavaria Film Studios, Munich: For interior scenes and tunnel sequences.
Awards and Nominations
The Great Escape received several prestigious awards and nominations, including:
- Academy Awards: Nominated for Best Film Editing.
- Golden Globe Awards: Nominated for Best Motion Picture – Drama.
- BAFTA Awards: Nominated for Best British Actor (Richard Attenborough).
Behind the Scenes Insights
- The film is based on real events, although some characters are composites or fictionalized for dramatic purposes.
- Steve McQueen performed many of his own stunts, including the famous motorcycle chase, although the final jump was performed by his friend and stunt double, Bud Ekins.
- The film’s production faced challenges, including recreating the extensive tunnel systems and managing a large ensemble cast.
Inspirations and References
The Great Escape is based on Paul Brickhill’s non-fiction book, which chronicles the true story of the mass escape from Stalag Luft III in 1944. The film captures the essence of the historical event while adding dramatic elements for cinematic impact.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
The final cut of The Great Escape closely follows the original script by James Clavell and W.R. Burnett. Some deleted scenes and additional content are available in special editions and DVD releases, providing further context and character development.
Book Adaptations and Differences
While the film is a faithful adaptation of Paul Brickhill’s book, it simplifies some aspects of the story and combines multiple real-life individuals into composite characters. The book provides more detailed accounts of the planning and execution of the escape.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- The arrival of the prisoners at Stalag Luft III and their immediate planning of the escape.
- The construction of the tunnels and the ingenious methods used to hide their activities.
- Hilts’ reconnaissance missions and his repeated stints in “the cooler.”
- The dramatic escape attempt and the various fates of the escapees.
- Hilts’ iconic motorcycle chase.
Iconic Quotes
- “I haven’t seen Berlin yet, from the ground or from the air, and I plan on doing both before the war is over.” – Hilts
- “We have in effect put all our rotten eggs in one basket. And we intend to watch this basket carefully.” – Group Captain Ramsey
- “It’s cooler in the cooler.” – Hilts
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- The film includes numerous references to the real-life events and individuals who participated in the escape from Stalag Luft III.
- The meticulous attention to detail in the set design and costume design enhances the film’s authenticity and historical accuracy.
Trivia
- The film’s budget was approximately $4 million, and it grossed over $11 million worldwide.
- Steve McQueen’s motorcycle chase scene is one of the most famous stunts in film history.
- The real-life escape from Stalag Luft III involved 76 prisoners, similar to the film, but only three managed to successfully escape to freedom.
Why Watch?
The Great Escape offers a thrilling and inspirational portrayal of one of the most daring escape attempts in history, featuring strong performances, particularly by Steve McQueen, and masterful direction by John Sturges. Its blend of action, drama, and historical authenticity makes it a must-watch for fans of war films and epic adventures.
Director’s Other Movies
John Sturges also directed:
- The Magnificent Seven (1960)
- Bad Day at Black Rock (1955)
- Gunfight at the O.K. Corral (1957)
- Ice Station Zebra (1968)
Recommended Films for Fans
- The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957)
- The Dirty Dozen (1967)
- A Bridge Too Far (1977)
- Stalag 17 (1953)
- Paths of Glory (1957)
