This film showcases an exceptional group of actors—though exclusively male—in a truly inventive story about what people are capable of when they're trapped and confronting a potentially hopeless situation. The WWII prisoner-of-war narrative features a diverse cast, each contributing uniquely to this collection of personalities and creative approaches. Richard Attenborough portrays a particularly troublesome figure for the German captors, having previously attempted numerous escapes, and he spearheads an organization called "X" dedicated to devising every possible plan to free those held in what's presented as an impenetrable “Super-Stalag.” Steve McQueen develops an unexpected partnership with Angus Lennie, nicknamed "the Mole," while James Garner teams up with Donald Pleasance, a skilled forger whose vision is progressively worsening and who has a fondness for tea. Charles Bronson and James Coburn, alongside several other experienced British performers, help to bring this endeavor to life in a realistic, occasionally humorous, but ultimately resolute manner. Hannes Messemer, playing "The Kommandant," also warrants recognition, as he appears to maintain some fundamental principles of humanity while attempting to prevent the Gestapo from enacting harsher measures. Elmer Bernstein’s soundtrack is particularly effective. The movie's length might be a drawback for some, but at least it concludes with everyone making it out alive.

Source on TMDB