[I’m getting soft in my dotage. The Great Escaper is a PBS movie based on the true story of an elderly World War II veteran who “escapes” from the assisted living facility that he shares with his wife (Glenda Jackson) in order to attend the 70th anniversary commemoration of the D-Day invasion of Normandy. It features no great feats of daring, no startling turns of event, no extravagant passions, but rather a few likable characters and a boatload of empathy, compassion, and nostalgia. It’s a Hallmark movie, but without the cloying schmaltz.
You gasp when you first see Michael Cane. Wasn’t it just a few years ago that he was roguish rascal Alphie, that guy with the adorable Cockney accent who managed to be somewhat lovable despite his out-of-control libido. Actually, it was more like 60 years ago. Sigh … what have I done with my life?
The Great Escaper will bring tears to your eyes more than once. PS–The Silverbelle in your life will like it, too. SB SM]
Here’s the trailer:
