Wow, a very good, well-paced WWII Action-Adventure: worth watching, more than once!

Rating: 8/10 (1 November 2004)

I've been listening to the soundtrack for the last few years, but never saw the movie - yes, that's a little 'round-about I know. But I finally TiVo'd this movie last week off Turner Classic Movies and gave it the better part of a sunny Saturday afternoon in October. I was not disappointed.
First, it's written by Alistair MacClean, AND it's not an adaptation, but written specially for the movie. Like many war movies there are some liberties taken in characterization of the enemy, but it's for entertainment, not history. I'm not politically correct, so I'm not put off by a "flat" characterization of German soldiers. Most of them are just cannon fodder anyway, so why develop them too highly. I am, however, pleased by the active role played by the two British female agents. Hail Mary - with a machine gun!
Second, bigger wow - this was 1968! I am so tired of the modern trend in Sfx towards bigger and flashier productions that overpower or substitute for a story. This has a real story. I like the British spy genre, because the value is upon intrigue more than action. Not until the end of the movie do you realize the purpose of the various errands by Eastwood and Burton. Only this genre would how you how meticulously planned is the escape, as well as the "storming of the castle." Most modern films would just show "a chase," and a lot of improvised mayhem to effect an escape.
Third, it kept me guessing. I knew there had to be a double agent, but I was hard pressed to figure out who. Like Lt. Schaffer during the denouement, I was "as confused as I could ever hope to be." And again, only the British would allow the gentlemanly "other option."
Finally, for being nearly three hours long, this move held my interest. I appreciate movies that exceed the standard 100 minute formula, and I enjoy them even more when they are paced well. If this movie was as well written, but 30 minutes longer, I would still watch it.
If you're a "fan" of either of the lead actors, this is a good movie to see them in a "non-standard" role. I'm not old enough to remember any other Richard Burton films, and while not really a "fan," I've certainly seen my share of Clint Eastwood movies. And this is as good as any, and better than many.