The Great Escaper (2023)

The Great Escaper sets sail with a heartwarming premise: Bernie, a WWII veteran residing in a care home, hatches a daring escape to fulfil a lifelong dream—attending the 70th-anniversary commemoration of the D-Day landings in Normandy. Michael Caine delivers a charming performance as Bernie, with a twinkle in his eye despite the wrinkles on his face. Glenda Jackson portrays his wife, Rene, and their love story as a quiet thread woven throughout the narrative. 

However, the film struggles to maintain momentum. The historical context, ripe for exploration, feels like a missed opportunity. Sure, there are flashbacks to Bernie’s wartime experiences, but they’re fleeting and lack depth. Similarly, the cultural impact of D-Day and its significance for veterans like Bernie are barely touched on. This is a shame, because a deeper dive into these themes could have resonated powerfully. 

The plot itself, while sweet, feels predictable. Bernie’s escape is executed with unbelievable, surprising ease, and the challenges he faces on his journey are fairly mild. There’s a sense of wanting him to encounter more obstacles and truly feel the weight of his escapade. The film’s tone, aiming for heartwarming with a touch of humour, lands somewhere in between.  There are moments that elicit genuine smiles, but they’re often undercut by a sentimentality that feels a bit forced.

The saving grace of the film lies in the performances. Caine, as always, is a delight to watch.  He imbues Bernie with a quiet determination and vulnerability that make him endearing. Jackson, though given less screen time, delivers a poignant portrayal of a wife grappling with her own limitations while supporting her husband’s dream. The supporting cast is solid, but their characters lack the same depth as the leads.

Director Oliver Parker keeps things visually pleasant. The French countryside is beautifully captured, and the cinematography is unobtrusive. The score is forgettable, failing to evoke much emotional resonance. The editing is competent, but the pacing feels uneven, particularly during the middle section of the film. Dialogue is mostly functional, with a few witty lines sprinkled in, but it lacks the spark that could have elevated the film’s emotional impact. 

Honestly, The Great Escaper left me feeling a little let down. It has the potential for brilliance, but the execution feels uninspired. Films like The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel come to mind, which handle similar themes of ageing and chasing dreams with a touch more humour and heart.  

If you’re looking for a light, predictable watch with a charming lead performance, then The Great Escaper might be worth a shot. There is not much here about the intricacies of love, loss, and memory that will satisfy those seeking a more profound exploration of these themes.

(In cinemas — check your local movie guide for show times.)