I watched The Great Escaper, a film set on the 70th anniversary of D-Day on the 80th anniversary by sheer coincidence. I had expected a charming comedy about an old man escaping his nursing home to be part of the celebrations, but The Great Escaper was so much more than from. From Parker's wonderful direction, to Caine's career topping performance, to the scene stealing presence of Jackson, this film is a quite unexpected emotional ride that is not only a tribute to those who sacrificed so much in was but also to two actors who have such stellar careers.
Th Great Escaper is the final film for both Caine and Jackson, the latter because she passed away soon after the film was made and the former because he retired making this his farewell film. And what a good choice. Both are wonderful in it. Caine brings so much more to the character than one might expect, playing the role with such a fullness. This isn't a film that is just about a funny old man. His Bernie is such a richly developed character who is incredible to watch. Caine has lost none of his screen presence. Jackson is just delightful as well. But their chemistry is a big part of what makes the film work so well.
The Great Escaper is far less about him "escaping" and so much more about how his connection to that time and place has such an impact. I was not necessarily prepared for how emotional it would be. Caine's gravitas creates moments that are just so powerful, as in his making connection with former German soldiers who had fought on the same beach, or his comment "what a waste" while standing in a grave yard filled with headstones. But also the love and connection between him and Jackson's character. Parker doesn't shoot this in a way that glosses over anything. He adds little moments that are unexpected and finds such a beautiful way to marry future and past, and draw connections between the living and the dead.
The Great Escaper is a fitting ending to Caine's incredible career. It is great to see him go out on such a high note.
The Great Escaper
Starring: Michael Caine, Glenda Jackson, John Standing, Danielle Vitalis
Director: Oliver Parker
Writer: William Ivory
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