rip roaring adventure

Rating: 7/10 (18 August 2005)

I must have seen this film a number of times although usually just parts of it rather than start to finish. It's enjoyment does not diminish with repeated viewings.
OK, the story line is not believable, the Germans cannot hit anything when they shoot whilst Clint could knock a fly out of the sky a mile off etc etc but for sheer wartime adventure this is hard to match. It's not the type of role you associate with Richard Burton but he is excellent in this, aided by a quality supporting caste. The scenery looks good whilst Ron Goodwin's score is outstanding. One of the best things I can say about the film is that it does not look dated after nearly 40 years.
Very little footage seems unnecessary, and the cable car fight is as exciting as anything done since. Don't expect anything particularly thought provoking, but if you are looking for a couple of hours of excitement this is hard to beat.