Von Ryan's Express (1965): Sinatra's Daring WWII Train Escape!

Simon (0:00)

Hello, and welcome to Mindset Movie Reviews. Settle in while we review Von Ryan's Express.

Von Ryan's Express, directed by Mark Robson, is a thrilling World War II adventure that combines action, drama and a touch of humor. Released in 1965, this film stars Frank Sinatra as Colonel Joseph L. Ryan, an American pilot shot down over Italy and captured by the enemy. The movie is based on David Westheimer's novel and features a screenplay by Joseph Landon and Wendell Mays. The plot centers around Ryan, who finds himself in an Italian prisoner of war camp, where he becomes the highest ranking officer. Initially, Ryan's approach to survival is pragmatic, opting for cooperation with the camp's Italian commandant to secure better living conditions for his fellow prisoners. This earns him the derisive nickname Von Ryan from the British prisoners led by the stern Major Eric Fincham, played by Trevor Howard. The tension between Ryan and Fincham provides a compelling dynamic, as both characters grapple with moral dilemmas and the harsh realities of war. As the story unfolds, the Italian guards abandon the camp, leaving the prisoners vulnerable to German forces. Ryan and Fincham must set aside their differences and work together to orchestrate a daring escape. The prisoners hijack a German train, setting off a high-stakes chase across Italy towards the Swiss border. The film's action sequences are expertly crafted, with the train journey providing a backdrop for thrilling encounters, including masquerading as Nazi officers and navigating treacherous mountain passes.

The cinematography by William H. Daniels captures the stunning Italian landscapes, adding a visual richness to the film. Jerry Goldsmith's score complements the tension and excitement, enhancing the overall experience. Despite its action-packed nature, the film also explores themes of leadership, sacrifice and the complexities of human nature in wartime. While Von Ryan's Express may not be as well known as other World War II films of its era, it stands out for its engaging storyline and strong performances. Sinatra delivers a subdued yet commanding portrayal of Ryan, showcasing his ability to lead and inspire under pressure. Trevor Howard's Fincham provides a perfect foil, embodying the stiff upper lip British officer with a penchant for action.

The film's pacing is brisk, with the narrative moving swiftly from one cliffhanger to the next. However, some critics have noted that the middle section of the film sag slightly, with repetitive scenes that detract from the main plot. Additionally, the supporting cast, while competent, lacks memorable characters that could have added depth to the story. Despite these minor shortcomings, Von Ryan's Express remains a satisfying and entertaining film. Its blend of action, drama and historical context makes it a worthwhile watch for fans of classic war movies. The film's conclusion, while somewhat downbeat, reinforces the themes of sacrifice and the cost of freedom, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.

In summary, Von Ryan's Express is a well-executed action film that combines thrilling sequences with thoughtful character development. It may not be entirely historically accurate, but it captures the spirit of adventure and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Whether you're a fan of war films or simply enjoy a good action-packed story, this film is worth your time. And that concludes my review of Von Ryan's Express, and I'm giving it 3 and a half stars out of a possible 5 stars.

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