Review of Stalag 17 (1953) by Harry K — 12 Feb 2010
Billy Wilder's adaptation of the stage play is utterly brilliant. It is darkly funny and full of suspense, especially towards the end. William Holden is brilliant as the cynical prisoner who is accused of being a spy for the Nazis by his fellow men.
His win for Best Actor of that year was highly deserving. The comparisons to The Great Escape are well deserved but both films are completely different yet both equally deserve the acclaim they've garnered over the years.
A must see war film that is full of more comedic moments than serious drama but is well worth watching. The scene where you find out who the rat is directed to perfection. That scene along with ending scene with Holden slapping the rat around are fantastic.
10/10.
This review of Stalag 17 (1953) was written by Harry K on 12 Feb 2010.
Stalag 17 has generally received very positive reviews.
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