Cast
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George Peppard
as Cpl. Chase
Romy Schneider
as Regine
Jeanne Moreau
as French Woman
George Hamilton
as Trower
Peter Fonda
as Weaver
Eli Wallach
as Sgt. Craig
Albert Finney
as Russian Soldier
Vince Edwards
as Baker
Melina Mercouri
as Magda
Maurice Ronet
as French Lieutenant
Rosanna Schiaffino
as Maria
Elke Sommer
as Helga
Michael Callan
as Eldridge
James Mitchum
as Grogan
Senta Berger
as Trudi
Crew
Director
- Carl Foreman
Producer
- Harold Buck
- Carl Foreman
Reviews
CinemaSerf
Interspersed with some newsreel footage from WWII, this story depicts the story of an American unit fighting their way through Europe. "Capt. Chase" (George Peppard), his friend "Cpl. Trower" (George Hamilton) and savvy sergeant "Joe" (Eli Wallach) face just about every hazard as we start shortly after they land in Sicily and end up (well some of them do) in Berlin. The combat elements of the film are unremarkable, to be honest, but what is striking here is the roles of the women. Starting with a super effort from the emotionally ravaged French lady whose home they must commandeer (Jean Moreau), then the clever and manipulative club owner "Magda" (Melina Mercouri) and finally "Helga" (Elke Summer) and "Trudi" (Senta Berger) who must make the most from the occupying powers in Berlin. It is their perspectives that make this a bit different and that contribute most to the humanity of this all but 3 hour marathon. At times it has an episodic feel to it, which I found disjointed the narrative a bit, and unfortunately the main casting - especially the really weak Hamilton, but with the exception of the on-form Wallach, just let the side down. There is far too much ponderous dialogue and Carl Foreman struggles at times to keep this frequently rambling drama engaging. It has a very strong supporting cast, and there are some nice touches now and again from the likes of Mervyn Johns and Romy Schneider to help it along, and give us a breather from the intensity of the wartime imagery. It is not a bad film this, but there is just too much chaff amongst the wheat.
Apr 16, 2022
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Victors examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Carl Foreman brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1963, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Victors took approximately 29 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 175 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 220 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1963, when this film was released:
- The space race between the USSR and USA was at its height.
- Social and cultural revolution was transforming Western societies.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Victors shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Arlington Road, which focuses more on action than character development, The Victors subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Letters from Iwo Jima and 300 explore similar territory, The Victors stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: November 22, 1963
- Runtime: 2h 55m
