Escape to Athena

Escape to Athena is a 1979 war adventure film directed by George Pan Cosmatos. The ensemble cast features well-established names, including Roger Moore, Telly Savalas, David Niven amongst others. The plot is set during the height of World War II and offers an engaging blend of war drama, comedy, action, and intrigue.

The story unfolds on the fictional Greek island of Athena, which is occupied by Nazi Germany. Roger Moore plays the character of Major Otto Hecht, a German Officer who is put in charge of the prison camp. He, however, has a stripped-down role compared to his glamorous portrayal of James Bond but still manages to bring a suave charm to his character. Hecht is a commodities man, making the best out of the war and keeping an eye out for priceless antiques for his own personal gain.

Telly Savalas plays the character of Zeno, who is the Greek resistance leader living on the island. Savalas brings a unique intensity and determination to his role, embodying the spirit and unflinching bravery of the small scale resistance fights. David Niven plays the role of Professor Blake, an archaeologist held captive in the German prison camp who uses his knowledge of Ancient Greece in a surprising and strategic manner.

The film gets its title from the operation planned by the leader of the resistance, Zeno. He aims to liberate the island, and the strategy borders on the audacious and ingenious, entailing the prisoners in the camp to join in a daring plan against their captors.

Adding to the complexity of characters, we have an assembly of additional prisoners all with unique characteristics and backgrounds. This motley crew includes a couple of expert American con men, a chef, a showgirl, and a bunch of no-nonsense, tough British soldiers. The unfolding camaraderie and dynamics amidst the tension of war play a significant part in accentuating the movie's overall charm and appeal.

The film beautifully captures the essence of Greek landscapes with a good amount of the action taking place against the backdrop of the picturesque island. It switches between intense gun battles and lighter moments, maintaining a balance that elevates the film beyond a mere ‘fight against oppression’ narrative.

Escape to Athena is more than just a war film. It successfully blends elements of adventure, suspense, humor, and action into a rich tapestry that keeps viewers engaged. The plot thickens, the tension builds, and the audiences are drawn into an exciting gauntlet as the characters come together to plan their audacious escape while trying to outwit and outplay their captors.

The film offers intriguing plot twists and turns, defying expectations at various turns, resulting in a thrilling narrative that lasts till the very end. The performances by the stellar and well-matched ensemble cast are exceptionally strong. Savalas is successful in showcasing the indomitable spirit of his character, while Moore and Niven lend credibility to their respective roles.

Despite being a war-centric film, Escape to Athena reflects the human spirit's resilience, echoed through its characters who demonstrate strength, courage, and intelligence against a backdrop of adversity. The film surprises at every turn, with ample doses of comedy interspersed amidst tense action sequences. The film is not just about the war but also about the characters' inner battles, their journey, their transformation, making the audience cheer for their success and freedom.

Furthermore, the film features exceptional production design. The vivid and detailed depiction of the WWII era is commendable, with careful attention given to maintain historical accuracy. George Pan Cosmatos' direction is equally brilliant and serves to enhance the narrative further. The cinematography provides a comprehensive visual scope, characteristic of classic war films, lending an authentic touch to the movie.

In conclusion, Escape to Athena is a unique blend of genres, creating a compelling war film laced with adventure, comedy, and pockets of suspense. High on action, it offers a captivating cinematic experience for audiences who appreciate the genre and works as a fitting tribute to the spirit of defiance and survival during the turbulent times of World War II.