THE GREAT ESCAPER | Official Trailer

In the summer of 2014, Bernard Jordan (Michael Caine) made global headlines. He had staged a “great escape” from his care home to join fellow war veterans on a beach in Normandy, commemorating their fallen comrades at the D-Day Landings 70th anniversary.​

It was a story that captured the imagination of the world as Bernie embodied the defiant, “can-do” spirit of a generation that was fast disappearing. But of course, it wasn’t the whole story. It was an inspirational but sanitised retelling of one man’s need to come to terms with the lasting trauma of war. ​

Bernie’s adventure, spanning a mere 48 hours, also marked the culmination of his 60-year marriage to Rene (Glenda Jackson). The Great Escaper celebrates their enduring love, but always with an eye to the lessons we might learn from the Greatest Generation.

[philgray]

This wasn't a great escape. The greatest: We had a 79 year old man suffering Alzheimers, who dressed in his blue blazer, tie, grey slacks and without a passport, or ticket and only $20, slipped out of the aged care facility and boarded a flight from Perth, Western Australia to go and help in the WW2 war effort. He made it all the way to London Heathrow, where his lack of a passport proved a stumbling block. He was detained by customs and had he not mentioned building Spitfires to fight Hitler, he might have conned his way through. This was 1984. We were at a total loss why the cabin crew looked after him and even assisted him. He told them he was an an aircraft engineer which was true. He was very smart physically and intellectually, couldn't remember breakfast or much short term stuff. Now that was a great escape.

[grahamyates]

I'm going to have to go to an empty theatre to see this ... can't have a 76 year old man bawling his eyes out in public, now can we?

[robynpoulton]

Absolutely my darling...great work ethic!! Luv u long time ❤❤❤

[marylancaster]

Its my birthday 6th June...i will have to see it❤😂🎉😢😊