I Was Monty's Double

I Was Monty's Double, known as "Hell, Heaven or Hoboken" in the USA, is a brilliantly devised black and white British World War II drama film from 1958, directed by John Guillermin. It is based on a true story and features a profound plot that highlights the importance of individual contributions in the fight for peace during wartime.

On opening casts, M.E. Clifton James, a British actor, takes on a fascinating dual role, playing both himself and Field Marshal Bernard Montgomery. His portrayal of this double role with such subtlety and skill is one of the main pillars on which the film's credibility rests. Alongside him, John Mills, one of Britain's esteemed actors, who was much adored for his roles in military and war films during that era, is equally outstanding in his performance. Mills plays the role of Major Harvey, an intelligence officer who devises the intriguing plan at the heart of the film's storyline. Cecil Parker, another British acting stalwart, adds more depth to the narrative with his impeccable performance as Colonel E.F. Logan.

The premise of I Was Monty's Double is as interesting as it is extraordinary. It focuses on the World War II manoeuvre known as Operation Copperhead, a top-secret military scheme intended to confuse Nazi Germany about the location of the D-Day Invasion. This deception strategy aimed to make the German forces believe that the invasion's landfall would be in the Pas-de-Calais region, rather than in Normandy.

The plan incorporates actor M.E. Clifton James, who bears an uncanny resemblance to Field Marshal Montgomery, one of the most recognised faces of the British Army. James is essentially wrangled into playing the role of Montgomery, a role that much extends beyond a stage’s wooden boards.

James, a small-time actor who enjoys a relatively uncomplicated lifestyle, is suddenly thrown into a whirlwind of secrecy and intrigue. Throughout this ordeal, he strives to come to terms with his responsibilities under the stringent supervision of Major Harvey and Colonel Logan, who provide him the necessary coaching. James has to perfect not only the physical resemblance but also the mannerisms and demeanour of the iconic Field Marshal to ensure the plan's success.

As the movie proceeds, the tension steadily escalates. The viewers are taken on a nail-biting adventure as they watch James make public appearances as Montgomery, trying to carry off the high-stakes charade without drawing suspicion. He is whisked away to Gibraltar and later to Algiers while the actual Montgomery is kept in concealed locations to prepare for the impending invasion.

The film I Was Monty's Double features a witty script, impressive cinematography, and a skilled ensemble of supporting actors. It presents a captivating narrative, blending elements of suspense, drama, and historical intrigue. It also contains humorous undertones, mostly arising from the premise of an actor playing a general in real life, and later impersonating the same general in a film about his own life.

Perhaps one of the most intriguing aspects of the movie is its semi-autobiographic nature. The barter of eccentricity and realism delivers a unique quality to the storyline, with intervals of suspense, shrouded by the intensity of wartime avenues. The movie can be described as a cinematic blend of history, art and adventure, leaving the audience intrigued and satiated.

I Was Monty's Double is a compelling example of classic British cinema that shines a light on an unusual and lesser-known side of World War II. It recounts a unique, somewhat unbelievable story, which is implemented with a surprising amount of tact, efficiency, and audacity. The film does an excellent job of portraying the complex layers of war, where winning is not solely about power and might, but also ingenious strategies and psychological warfare. It's a testament to the lengths to which individuals and countries will go to ensure victory and protect their homeland during times of conflict. For anyone interested in war films with an element of suspense and real-life intrigue, I Was Monty’s Double is a sound pick.