When a spirited bunch of WWII POWs are dispatched to a high security compound, the resourceful gang waste no time in making a mockery of the camp's escape-proof reputation. Under the guidance of Roger 'Big X' Bartlett (Richard Attenborough), the group of serial escapees, mostly made up of captured Air Force pilots, set about plotting the ultimate breakout.
The men, including Flight Lt Hendley 'The Scrounger' (James Garner), claustrophobic 'Tunnel King' Velinski (Charles Bronson) and the rebellious Virgil 'The Cooler King' Hilts (Steve McQueen), use their specialist talents to construct a complex tunnel system, through which 250 prisoners of war could make a courageous bid for freedom. The men's quest is not without its hitches and as they advance on freedom the mission becomes ever more perilous. It's nail-biting stuff as the action explodes into life, with Hilts's dramatic motorbike escape attempt the highlight of a brilliant barnstorming climax.
Based on a true story, this wonderful recreation of 77 prisoners' gallant escape is a much-loved 60s classic. Parodied in popular culture numerous times, The Great Escape has been referenced in TV comedies like Seinfeld and The Simpsons and was the inspiration for Aardman Animations' feature Chicken Run. An impressive ensemble cast features Academy Award winner James Coburn, Donald Pleasence and of course, McQueen, in probably his most iconic role. The Great Escape is a fantastic mixture of action, drama, comedy and pathos, all of which combine with a very memorable theme to make for a timeless classic.
The Great Escape is a Film programme that first aired in 1963 and has been classified a PG certificate.
