Taut direction and atmospheric black and white photography immediately draw the viewer into this concise, 90 minute account of WW2 history.
While always aware of the vast perspective of Colditz Castle, I love the way we are effectively taken on an episodic journey with the POW's and their relentless escape attempts, by way of close-up photography that gives the film a pleasing intimate quality.
The three leading players ; John Mills, Eric Portman and Christopher Rhodes give expert performances while by no means diminishing the contributions of a fine supporting cast. Welcome light relief is charmingly provided by Ian Carmichael and Richard Watts, a perfect fit in the concert segment.
Definitely one of my three favourite British WW2 gems, the other two being "The Way to the Stars" and "The Dam Busters" (it is a pity about that dog's name).
While always aware of the vast perspective of Colditz Castle, I love the way we are effectively taken on an episodic journey with the POW's and their relentless escape attempts, by way of close-up photography that gives the film a pleasing intimate quality.
The three leading players ; John Mills, Eric Portman and Christopher Rhodes give expert performances while by no means diminishing the contributions of a fine supporting cast. Welcome light relief is charmingly provided by Ian Carmichael and Richard Watts, a perfect fit in the concert segment.
Definitely one of my three favourite British WW2 gems, the other two being "The Way to the Stars" and "The Dam Busters" (it is a pity about that dog's name).