A Bridge Too Far has been hailed ‘masterful’ (Image: undefined)
A wartime epic has been lauded as ‘masterfully created’ and ‘one of the greatest war films ever’, and it’s screening on BBC4 this evening.
Released in 1977 under the direction of the late Richard Attenborough, ‘A Bridge Too Far’ has captivated audiences with its stellar ensemble cast and sweeping narrative.
The film chronicles the ill-fated WWII Operation Market Garden, drawing from Cornelius Ryan’s acclaimed book.
Set in the autumn of 1944, the story unfolds as Allied forces appear to be gaining the advantage in the European theatre.
A joint British and American airborne operation, commanded by American general Gavin and British general Urquhart (portrayed by James Bond star Sean Connery), aims to secure a strategic route from the Netherlands into Germany, enabling British ground forces under Lieutenant General Horrocks (Edward Fox) and Lieutenant Colonel Vandeleur (Michael Caine) to advance into hostile territory—but the Allies quickly discover their confidence may be misplaced.
A Bridge Too Far stars a raft of A-listers (Image: undefined)
Clocking in at 176 minutes, the film’s runtime has sparked discussion amongst cinema enthusiasts, yet critical reception remains overwhelmingly favourable. Film and television review platform Rotten Tomatoes showcases the widespread acclaim.
One review said: “Masterfully crafted by Richard Attenborough. Monumental in all proportions. No wonder this movie is notable for its large ensemble cast of 14 major “superstars”, featuring many Oscar-winning actors.”, reports the Mirror.
“It is often recognized as having one of the most famous ensemble casts in war movie history. Very well written. Great cinematography, even cameramen with parachutes! Stellar cast all excels in character.”
Another viewer added: “It’s long but really good. They even hook a camera to a paratrooper so you feel what they go through. I read the book and the movie stays on point for the most part.”
A Bridge Too Far is on tonight (Image: undefined)
One fan wrote: “Great war movie. Honestly I don’t know why this got such mediocre reviews. It is long, yes, but no less exciting, excellently acted, monumental in scope and, to pull that all off in 1977 must have been a challenge.
“There are some scenes which carry weight to this day. Unusual for a big budget blockbuster war movie to have more emotion than many at the time,” a third observer noted.
A fourth viewer said: “An underrated gem, with great action and suspense. They probably could have trimmed about 15 minutes. Redford, James Caan, and Sean Connery highlighted the all-star cast.”
Another enthusiast added: “One of the greatest war films ever put to screen. With an all star cast the complaints about it being too long are unwarranted as the build up and story is fully required. An all time great!”.
One more fan said: “Historical films. This is one of the best. Up there with ‘Tora Tora Tora’ and ‘Waterloo’ A Bridge too far focuses on Op Market Garden. And if you know anything about the history of that event, you can probably guess what happens in the film.
“More or less. this film is fairly historically accurate and is very well shot by the brilliant Richard Attenborough.”
A Bridge Too Far airs on Thursday 5 February on BBC4 at 10.50pm.