Stalag 17

I have seen many films and movies, yet I'm sure there are many more out there that I haven't seen. Yes, the old films do fascinate me and I can't pinpoint which genre I prefer. There are a few things that I do enjoy - one, I like stories and a good old film contains a good story; two, I enjoy war films or anything war related; third and last, I love a witty comedy and you can never go wrong with a witty comedy. I have seen a few films that all check out the boxes mentioned but right now I'll catch your attention to something that's extra witty. My today's pick is Stalag 17 and if you haven't watched it yet, make sure you put it on your list.

Stalag 17

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I'm sure I can't put WWII as a genre so I'm putting them on a type but that's a discussion for later. When you're picking (not just films) something, say a book, there's a best and there's a favorite and often your favorite isn't the best book you've read. Stalag 17 is perhaps one film that's high on the favorite list and low on the best list and I don't mind that not all great films become your favorite. The last couple of times I had written about films by directors I haven't gotten to start with before but Billy Wilder isn't one of them. I have crossed off quite a few films from his long filmography and I have never been disappointed even an ounce - Wilder has become a safe pick for me.

Stalag 17 was quite an enjoyable film, I should say. In the beginning, the narrator was saying how in WWII films they show what's happening on the battlefield or how soldiers get captured and rescued but no one shows what happens inside the prison camp - and this is the daily life story of 630 airmen that got captured and booted off to the prison camp which is called Stalag 17. What is so interesting about this film? Well, there's one very smart guy who manages to operate and barter with prisoners and guards but somehow is on the hated list; also every prisoner believes he's a snitch and a traitor. Then there's failed attempt at prison escape, gambling, card games, prison fights, rat races, and beautiful Russian female prisoners for whom admirers line up to catch a glimpse through the telescope. Oh yes, there are two stooges who manage to fuck up and make the audience laugh. But is it all? It certainly is not - there's only so much more.

I always form my own opinion about a film and although someone else's opinion might give me an insight, my likings or disliking don't usually get on a different path from my initial outlook. Stalag 17 is very witty with much comedy. Life in a prison camp isn't easy - on the contrary, being imprisoned takes a toll on the mind, body, and soul. Even with all the witty and gritty jokes and quick thinkings of many prisoners there, they tried to somewhat cover up the miseries of life there - and I get it, sometimes all you can do is laugh at misery. It is a good movie indeed and perhaps one of those I like repeating from time to time.