Another outstanding piece of British Cinema. John Mills plays a Captain charged with getting his ambulance through enemy held desert to Alexandria. He is joined by his Sergeant Major and a couple of female nurses. During the trip they pick up a 'South African' Officer (Anthony Quayle) left behind by his unit during the retreat.
The story outlines the trials and hurdles the hardy group face in getting their ambulance back to Alexandria all the while the spectre of German Afrika Corps looms in the background. Matters are complicated by John Mills alcohol problem and Anthony Quayle's seemingly endless supply of Gin. Some of the highlights of the film include the dramatic attempt at 'cranking' the ambulance up a steep slope (makes you sweat just watching it) and the subsequent release of the crank handle by the nurse (not even going to mention women drivers). You can almost see their hearts break as the ambulance hurtles down the slope.
Anthony Quayle's performance is a joy to watch - I wont mention too much about him as there may be someone who hasn't seen the film and I wouldn't want to spoil it for them. from the quicksand.
And finally of course the scene where they are sat at the bar and the glasses of lager are lined up for them. Apparently John Mills had to re take the drinking scene about 10 times and as they were using real lager to get the right frosted effect on the glass he was absolutely hammered by the end of filming.
A wonderful film - highly recommended.
Wonderful film.
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Soundtrack
Good
How does it compare to others by the same director?
Not applicable
Value for Money
Excellent
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DVD
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