The Great Escape (1963) Criterion 1080p BluRay x265 HEVC EAC3-SARTRE

One of the most exciting adventure tales ever told, this action epic recounts the planning, execution, and aftermath of a daring true-life escape from a German prisoner-of-war camp during World War II, in which 250 men attempted to tunnel their way to freedom. In the role that cemented his superstar status, Steve McQueen plays the motorcycle-racing daredevil who sets out to foil the Nazis, alongside an all-star cast that includes Charles Bronson, James Coburn, James Garner, and Donald Pleasence. The expert direction of John Sturges, eminently hummable Elmer Bernstein score, and rip-roaring stunts come together in what may just be the most spectacularly entertaining prison-break movie of all time, a rousing ode to the determination, camaraderie, and courage of everyday heroes.
Note: The old MGM subtitles seem a tad more complete






Extras

• Michael Sragow on John Sturges and The Great Escape

• “The Great Escape”: Heroes Under Ground, a four-part 2001 documentary about the real-life escape from the Stalag Luft III prisoner-of-war camp during World War II, including interviews with POWs held there

• The Real Virgil Hilts: A Man Called Jones, a 2001 program on the United States Army Air Forces pilot David Jones, the inspiration for Steve McQueen’s character in the film

• Return to “The Great Escape,” a 1993 program featuring interviews with Coburn, Garner, and actors David McCallum and Jud Taylor

• Commentary one is hosted by historian Bruce Eder with recorded commentary from director John Sturges, composer Elmer Bernstein, second unit director Robert E. Relyea and stuntman Bud Ekins (recorded in 1991). Commentary two is hosted by author Steven J. Rubin and features actors James Coburn, James Garner, and Donald Pleasence, Judd Taylor and David McCallum and various production crew.

• Trailer