Review of Stalag 17 (1953) by Francisco B — 06 Aug 2010
A very different portrayal of a POW camp. Billy Wilder focuses on the interplay between lots of macho men with too much time on their hands. Much of this is very good, but at times it felt worryingly like 'Carry On Colditz': a couple of the more overtly comedic characters really got on my nerves, and most of the German guards were next seen in 'Allo 'Allo!
It's all held together by a great performance by William Holden as the cynical JJ Sefton, who trades with the Nazis, bets against escape attempts and generally upsets everyone else. Not that he cares much.
The drama of the mystery behind the traitor in their midst is really interesting, but gets hidden by some hit-and-miss (mostly miss) slapstick that felt very out of place to me.
This review of Stalag 17 (1953) was written by Francisco B on 06 Aug 2010.
Stalag 17 has generally received very positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
