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The Great Escaper (2023)
The film was brought to my attention by a post from @BrodyAtAmity.
The Great Escaper is a terrific film in many ways. The pairing of two of the greatest actors of the 20th and early 21st Centuries --Michael Caine and Glenda Jackson-- was in itself a master stroke. The acting by the two veterans is of the highest caliber. There is also an inspired performance by the old pro, John Standing.
Deftly directed by Oliver Parker and photographed by Christopher Ross, the story is about octogenarian Bernie (Caine) who surreptitiously leaves his old aged home in the south of England to travel to France to attend the 70th anniversary commemoration of the D-Day landing and battle. His wife Rene (Jackson) is in on the “escape”, although he leaves without telling her.
Beyond knowing that Bernie is a veteran of the battle, we aren’t let in on the overriding reason that draws him to the commemoration until later. Bernie and Rene have been married since WWII, and are still very much in love. We are treated to flashbacks of when they met and fell in love, juxtaposed with scenes of their similar current bond.
Although Bernie is infirm, and must use a walker, he manages to slip away from the assisted living home, and travel to France by boat. Along the way he becomes acquainted with another veteran (Standing) whereupon they agree to room together for a couple of days. What Bernie experiences at the enormous Normandy D-Day cemetery reveals the purpose of his odyssey.
It’s mainly Michael Caine’s film, but the many scenes with Jackson are sweetly touching without being overly sentimental. Their lifelong union is both poignant and bittersweet. Jackson also shines in solo scenes in their quarters, as well as with their care worker, as Rene compliments the lady and gives her knowing feminine advice.
There are no flaws in this picture. The story, the acting is all first class. Sadly, 6 months after the filming Glenda Jackson died, aged 87. And Michael Caine subsequently announced that this was his last picture, moving to retirement. It’s heart warming to know that they were both treated to a private showing of the completed film only weeks before Jackson’s death.
Doc’s rating: 10/10
