Michael Caine and the late Glenda Jackson sparkle as wartime sweethearts in their twilight years in Oliver Parker’s heartwarming film, The Great Escaper.
This emotionally rousing British drama is based on the remarkable true story of Bernard Jordan, who, at 89, set out to Normandy to commemorate the 70th anniversary of D-Day.
The inimitable Sir Michael Caine in what is his last role as he recently told The Telegraph he can no longer walk properly and is effectively retired.
Caine plays World War Two veteran Bernard Jordan who escapes from his Brighton care home to travel to France to take part in the 70th anniversary of the D-Day landings.
Jackson is on top form as his steely, spirited and supportive wife Irene, who encourages him to undertake the adventure.
Screenwriter William Ivory has produced a script full of tender warmth, humor and poignancy which is based on the true story of 89-year-old Jordan who made this journey in 2014.
As we watch the early affection and passion of the pair develop against a backdrop of exact period details, the film’s skillful use of flashback lends it considerable emotional impact.
The film doesn’t hold back when depicting the horror of combat, and the frontline scenes are quite disturbing.
The magnificent cinematography was filmed around Hastings and Camber. There are powerful scenes between Caine and John Standing, who portrays a former fighter pilot battling his own problems, supported by a strong ensemble.
The story does take some liberties, not least in the way that everyone Bernie meets seems to know who he is. The starstruck ferry staff, for example, are all desperate to foist chocolate and other goodies from the duty free shop onto him.
Some will find all this a little pat – but the real draw is watching Caine, who plays his role with complete dignity. Jackson, too, is an irascible presence, and her performance will move many. The final shots of the two of them on the promenade suggest two epic acting careers that are coming to a close – and suitably, doing so hand-in-hand.
