FR-G010-1938

La Grande Illusion

Video

VHS

Romance Languages

No

Available

"Made at the peak of Jean Renoir`s career, and widely regarded as one of the greatest prison escape movies ever made, ""La Grande Illusion"" is also the most sincere and effective of the anti-war films. It assembles a magnificent cast headed by Erich von Stroheim as the German commandant, memorably attired in neck brace and riding boots, whose tragic choice between friendship and duty provides a shattering climax. Jean Gabin and Pierre Fresnay star as two French fliers shot down during World War One. Months later, having been swithced from camp to camp, they arrive at Germany`s most formidable prison fortress--to find themselves under the command of Rauffenstein (von Stroheim) who treats his French (ranking) prisoners with a respect and charity rarely encountered between enemies." Notes: "If I had to save only one film in the world, it would be `La Grande Illusion`--Orson Welles". Director: Jean Renoir. Black&White. Country: France. Subtitled.