Enduring, must see movie

Rating: 8/10 (19 December 2005)

Based on historical evidence, this film gives an entertaining account of life in a German prisoner of war camp and a planned "Great Escape" i.e. all the inhabitants out in one hit.
I first saw this film as a young child. It was one of my Dad's favourite movies and stars several of our mutually favourite actors: Charles Bronson, Steve McQueen, Richard Attenborough among them. Almost every time this movie came on TV, I felt compelled to watch. I finally bought the movie on DVD and watch it at least once a year.
There is very little to dislike about this film. It suits male and female; a huge age range; it contains drama, comedy and plenty of action; the acting is excellent on the whole. The music is fantastic and a suitable tempo and mood throughout. Even knowing the story's outcome, I am still taken through the gamut of emotions each time I watch it.
One bit of trivia: apparently Steve McQueen did the majority of his motorbike stunts (although apparently they wouldn't let him do the one at "the border").