The Bridge on the River Kwai tells the story of English prisoners of war building a bridge for their Japanese captors. Led by Alec Guinness as Colonel Nicholson, the POWs work on the railroad bridge to salvage their dignity and humanity. An American prisoner escapes from the prisoner camp and returns home, only to be sent back to lead an elite commando team with one mission: to destroy the Bridge. Nicholson has realized the great investment of time and care that he and his men have made for the bridge. He cannot allow the bridge to be destroyed! This film is truly great. Often imitated, never improved upon. Movies like this, and Lawrence of Arabia are recquired viewing...especially to fully enjoy more recent productions, like Spaceballs, which parody/copy these classics. Recognized with 7 Academy Awards: 1957 Academy Awards Best Actor: Alec Guinness Best Adapted Screenplay: Carl Foreman Best Adapted Screenplay: Michael Wilson Best Adapted Screenplay: Pierre Boulle Best Cinematography: Jack Hildyard Best Director: David Lean Best Original Score: Malcolm Arnold Best PictureRead full review
Classic war movie, deserving of the Oscars it received. While not as "realistic" as some of today's war films (for example, the soldiers don't look starving or even particularly grubby), it still packs a punch. To me the ending, which does not follow the book, is a bit contrived but it doesn't detract overall from the message. The special features on the disk are "OK" but don't worry if you get a copy without the second disk - you aren't missing anything vital. If you are interested in these sorts of films, get a copy of "Three Came Home" which depicts a civilian Japanese prison camp. It is based on a true story as opposed to Bridge on the River Kwai.
I had heard about The Bridge on the River Kwai and what a fantastic film it is but never had a chance to see it until I bought it on eBay. WOW! Alec Guinness played the best role of his life in this film with sheer genius and perfect by-the-book British officer discipline. William Holden was dazzling and at the peak of his career. The sets, locations, cinematography, and screenplay were brilliant and the story itself was riveting, with surprising turns of events and the realization at the end of having made horrendous mistakes. I would recommend this movie, not just for war story fans, but for anyone who appreciates resplendent acting and compelling stories.
Excellent movie!! One of the best made and still a classic! Very well done-beautiful scenery and story line. the brutal treatment of the prisoners did not blunt their pride in building the best bridge they could under the conditions they were subjected to. Very enjoyable and captivating movie!
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Exciting, riviting, great acting, based on true story.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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