Classic Film With An All Time Great Cast

Rating: 9/10 (1 June 2014)

This film is special, and not only because of the utterly catchy theme music, but because of the execution. Everything from the award nominated film editing, to the seamless cast and tension throughout the last hour, the film is a masterpiece. At first the music didn't seem to fit, but after while you realize the genius behind that classic tune. The actors are all perfect in their roles, and I particularly enjoyed Steve McQueen in the lead. It was my first taste of the Oscar nominated actor, and he couldn't have made a better impression.
I really liked the links I saw to Shawkshank Redemption, which obviously was influenced by this classic WWII escape movie. From the moles they had, to the removing dirt/stone by shaking it out of their pants, you can easily tell the influence it has had. I also liked that while Steve McQueen is considered the lead by default, there really wasn't an actual screen time lead. There were roughly 8 actors who shared most of the screen time, and it was directed perfectly.
But I would say the lack of a defining villain was the reason it wasn't a perfect film. For a movie that nears 3 hours, I would have liked to get to know the main bad guys of the camp more, which would have made the final escape even more thrilling. I didn't know the actual outcome, so it did surprise me who made it out and who didn't. The movie is quite a thrill for being over 50 years old and I highly recommend it for anyone who loves WWII stories, or just watching great acting.
+Brilliant ensemble cast
+Actual Thriller
+Catchy main theme
-Lack of a defining villain
9.4/10