Chalk another one up for Wilder

Rating: 10/10 (13 December 2002)

MINOR SPOILERS
I found this film entertaining from start to finish. Wilder took a huge risk with setting a Drama/Comedy in a Nazi prisoner of war camp. However, Wilder in his prime could do no wrong.
Yes, it can be challenging to get over the fact that the environment inside that P.O.W. camp was very silly and light-hearted. However, one must note the difference between inside and outside the barracks. The men offered themselves a personal escape through the games, schemes, and jokes. Outside, a very serious no-nonsense kommandant and two of their friends killed trying to escape. It amazes me how Wilder blended the two extremes so masterfully. I believe that some people misinterpret this movie as a flop because they can't pull themselves out of the assumed seriousness of the camp.
Bill Holden is amazing. He has an air about him that few actors are blessed with. Also the interaction with the spy and the rest of the barracks once we know he is the spy is gripping. Stalag 17 is a class-act, it deserves a viewing.