classic World War II film

Rating: 10/10 (3 January 2007)

Twelve condemned soldiers are chosen for a suicide mission to attack and destroy a well defended castle housing German officers. Lee Marvin plays their commander. The film is divided into two parts: the training of the men and then the mission itself. The casting and director made this an instant classic in the WWII film genre. Robert Aldrich brought out the humanity in these condemned soldiers who have nothing to lose. John Cassevetes takes the best acting honors IMHO. But everyone is great, especially Lee Marvin as the renegade Army officer who leads them. Aldrich masterfully blended action with character.