Wow, what a cast of masters. Looking at the user ratings, I note that younger folks rate the film a little lower than older people. It is sad if some young people are not touched by this piece of history.
David Niven, usually a ready raconteur, explained (see IMDb bio) why he never talked of his WWII experiences, "I was asked by some American friends to search out the grave of their son near Bastogne. I found it where they told me I would, but it was among 27,000 others, and I told myself that here, Niven, were 27,000 reasons why you should keep your mouth shut after the war."
Alec Guinness could could probably play a statue and do it well. Here, he barely utters a sound and performs wonderfully. Leo McKern plays a Rumpole like character, radiating goodness from within a crusty skin. Character actor John Randolph fits perfectly as the American GI returning to remember Normandy. The other lead roles are faultlessly cast with two magnificent veterans, Jeanne Moreau and Lauren Bacall as well as Geraldine Page. A true A list group of actors.
Writer Roy Clark has done countless hours of comedy, nearly always with gentleness and dignity. This is among his best work.
David Niven, usually a ready raconteur, explained (see IMDb bio) why he never talked of his WWII experiences, "I was asked by some American friends to search out the grave of their son near Bastogne. I found it where they told me I would, but it was among 27,000 others, and I told myself that here, Niven, were 27,000 reasons why you should keep your mouth shut after the war."
Alec Guinness could could probably play a statue and do it well. Here, he barely utters a sound and performs wonderfully. Leo McKern plays a Rumpole like character, radiating goodness from within a crusty skin. Character actor John Randolph fits perfectly as the American GI returning to remember Normandy. The other lead roles are faultlessly cast with two magnificent veterans, Jeanne Moreau and Lauren Bacall as well as Geraldine Page. A true A list group of actors.
Writer Roy Clark has done countless hours of comedy, nearly always with gentleness and dignity. This is among his best work.