Review of Stalag 17 (1953) by David S — 25 Apr 2013
This films shows more of the brutality of the prisoner of war camps than the more well-known 'The Great Escape' and since most the film is set within the hut it doesn't quite escape its stage origins.
However it's a great mix of drama and comedy and it's great seeing Holden in another camp (he would return again in 6 years time for 'Bridge on the River Kwai'). Like the previous Wilder film ('Sunset Boulevard') Holden isn't playing a likeable character but the unknown traitor in the hut is the real villain and therefore you still end up rooting for him.
Comparing this to 'The Great Escape' or even 'Kwai' shows the difference in attitude between the British and Americans. You get a feeling in 'Escape' that all the British soldiers will stay friends for life.
In 'Stalag' you get the feeling that all the Americans hate each others guts! It provides an interesting tension to the film.
This review of Stalag 17 (1953) was written by David S on 25 Apr 2013.
Stalag 17 has generally received very positive reviews.
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