The story that captivated the world is retold starring Michael Caine and Glenda Jackson

In the summer of 2014, the world was captivated by the story of Bernard Jordan escaping his care home to join the 70th anniversary of the D-D Landings. While dignitaries, including US president, Barak Obama, were gathering in Normandy, Bernard Jordan made his great escape.

Bernard, known as Bernie, with his wife Irene’s blessing had walked out of their care home in Hove, England, and made a heroic trip to join his comrades in Normandy, France.

Bernie had missed out on joining an accredited visit with the Royal British Legion, but this didn’t stop him taking a bus from Hove to Portsmouth and a Ferry to France, unaccompanied and at the age of 89.

The story that captured the world’s imagination has been retold in the film The Great Escaper opening in cinemas on 6th October 2023

Bernie, played by Michael Caine and Rene, played by Glenda Jackson, in her final film before passing away in June 2023, epitomise the can-do attitude of an almost lost generation. Their honest portrayal of ageing is shown without sentimentality and in such a way that only a couple of 89 and 86 respectfully, could understand. The World War II Royal Navy Officer and his sweetheart, portray the loving union of a couple who have lived through some of the hardest times yet see the good in all life has to offer.

The outstanding casting of both Caine and Jackson, along with John Standing as Arthur, is a work of true cinematic genius. The film has you enthralled from the first moment to the last and you find yourself completely immersed in the characters and storyline.

As an ex-soldier, Michael Caine, who served in Korea during his National Service, understands the horrors of war, the loss of life and the sacrifices made for us to be free today. It’s easily seen on his face, and you can’t help but feeling that he fully understood the motives behind Bernie’s adventure and why he wanted to honour his fallen comrades.

I loved every moment of this film, the characters and the telling of Bernie’s adventure, the heroism and sacrifice made by so many doesn’t go unnoticed. But at the heart of this film is romance, a story of one couple’s love against all odds. The Great Escaper has charm, wit and adventure and I can’t wait to see it again.

The Great Escaper opens in cinemas on 6th October 2023