Review of Stalag 17 (1953) by Michael C — 02 Apr 2010
"Some Like it Hot" is always held as Billy Wilder's comedy masterpiece; I don't mean to sound like a separatist, but for me, Wilder's comedy/drama set in a POW camp would get top billing as far as his comedies go.
Granted it isn't as much a comedy as some of his other films, and in fact it functions as a terrific thriller throughout. But there are plenty of moments that are hilarious even 50 years later that make the film very effective.
The scene with all of the POWS dressed as Hitler in a mockery of their captors. The lovable Animal (Robert Strauss, a consistent scene stealer in this film) and his schoolboy obsession with Betty Grable; even soldiers dancing with one another frames a moment full of laughs.
What makes this film a masterpiece is how skillfully Wilder transitions between the comedy and genuine drama. Using the steel-eyed commanding acting of William Holden as the guide through this intriguing world, Wilder creates a story that absorbs you and characters you truly care for, and its overall effect is awesome.
And the final comeuppance to the traitor among them; brilliant. This is a criminally underrated war film, and I am even slightly embarrassed it took so long for me to see it.
This review of Stalag 17 (1953) was written by Michael C on 02 Apr 2010.
Stalag 17 has generally received very positive reviews.
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