This is one of the only Errol Flynn films I hadn't yet seen until today. Although it was made by Warner Brothers, it is not all that famous and isn't shown on television that often.
The film begins in France during the German occupation. A career criminal (Flynn) is about to be guillotined for his many crimes. However, just before the deed could occur, Allied bombers blow up a nearby munitions dump--and destroy the prison--allowing Flynn to escape. Eventually, however, a dogged police inspector (Paul Lukas) catches up to Flynn and plans on bringing him back for the execution. However, in the interim, the Underground has blown up a bridge and destroyed a train filled with German soldiers. And, as a result, the Germans plan on executing 100 innocent men unless they find the culprit. So, instead of executing Flynn, they plan on having Flynn take credit for the bombing--allowing his execution to save many others. But, considering that Flynn is a total reprobate, it often seemed very, very doubtful if he actually will do what he'd promised--and might just be using this plan to help him bide his time until he can somehow escape.
In many ways, the character in this film seems almost autobiographical for Flynn. No, I am NOT saying he was a murderer or career criminal, but there are many similarities. Scenes where Flynn is talking about his wasted life and relationship with God sure seem like he could be talking about his real-life self! As for this plot, it is very unusual and made for a very atypical sort of propaganda film--but it somehow works. Decent acting and typical top Warner Brothers production values make this one worth seeing--even if it's not among Flynn's best.
The film begins in France during the German occupation. A career criminal (Flynn) is about to be guillotined for his many crimes. However, just before the deed could occur, Allied bombers blow up a nearby munitions dump--and destroy the prison--allowing Flynn to escape. Eventually, however, a dogged police inspector (Paul Lukas) catches up to Flynn and plans on bringing him back for the execution. However, in the interim, the Underground has blown up a bridge and destroyed a train filled with German soldiers. And, as a result, the Germans plan on executing 100 innocent men unless they find the culprit. So, instead of executing Flynn, they plan on having Flynn take credit for the bombing--allowing his execution to save many others. But, considering that Flynn is a total reprobate, it often seemed very, very doubtful if he actually will do what he'd promised--and might just be using this plan to help him bide his time until he can somehow escape.
In many ways, the character in this film seems almost autobiographical for Flynn. No, I am NOT saying he was a murderer or career criminal, but there are many similarities. Scenes where Flynn is talking about his wasted life and relationship with God sure seem like he could be talking about his real-life self! As for this plot, it is very unusual and made for a very atypical sort of propaganda film--but it somehow works. Decent acting and typical top Warner Brothers production values make this one worth seeing--even if it's not among Flynn's best.