“Kelly’s Heroes”: A Classic War Comedy That Strikes Gold
Released in 1970, amidst the backdrop of the Vietnam War, “Kelly’s Heroes” is an action-packed war comedy film that combines thrilling war scenes with a generous dose of humor. Directed by Brian G. Hutton and written by Troy Kennedy Martin, this movie found its place in the long lineage of World War II-based films, offering a fresh take on the genre with its irreverent humor and heist storyline. Executed with finesse, the movie struck a chord with audiences of the time and continues to be regarded as a classic today.
Directed by Brian G. Hutton, an accomplished filmmaker known for “Where Eagles Dare” and “Puppet on a Chain,” “Kelly’s Heroes” showcases his talent for blending action and comedy. Hutton’s direction brings out the camaraderie among the characters, while also brilliantly capturing the intense and chaotic atmosphere of war. The movie was produced by War Partners, a production company formed by Gabriel Katzka and Sidney Beckerman.
The screenplay for “Kelly’s Heroes” was penned by Troy Kennedy Martin, a British screenwriter known for his notable work on “The Italian Job”. Martin expertly weaves together comedy, action, and drama, creating a unique tone that sets “Kelly’s Heroes” apart from other war films. His ability to juggle multiple storylines and inject humor into the most perilous situations showcases his talent for crafting entertaining narratives.
Set towards the end of World War II, “Kelly’s Heroes” follows a group of American soldiers who embark on a daring mission to steal a hidden cache of gold behind enemy lines. The film opens with Private Kelly, played by Clint Eastwood, stumbling upon information about a massive stash of gold in a German-occupied French town. With the help of a ragtag group of soldiers, including Telly Savalas as Big Joe, Don Rickles as Crapgame, Carroll O’Connor as General Colt, and Donald Sutherland as the quirky Oddball, Kelly hatches a plan to sneak behind German lines and steal the treasure for themselves. However, their audacious scheme is complicated by the presence of both German and American military forces, posing a constant threat to their mission.
The casting of “Kelly’s Heroes” boasts an impressive ensemble, with Clint Eastwood leading the charge as the resourceful and determined Kelly. Eastwood’s portrayal perfectly captures his character’s cunning and charisma, solidifying his status as a Hollywood icon. Telly Savalas shines as the stoic and begrudging leader, while Don Rickles injects the film with his signature comedic timing. Donald Sutherland’s eccentric turn as Oddball provides a refreshing contrast to the seriousness of war.
Upon release, “Kelly’s Heroes” garnered a mixed critical reception. While some critics praised the film’s innovative blend of action and comedy, others found fault with its irreverent take on the war genre. Despite the varying opinions, audiences embraced the film and it went on to become a box office success. Its popularity among moviegoers can be attributed to the film’s ability to provide thrilling war scenes while also delivering laughs, making it a relatable and enjoyable experience for viewers of all ages.
Apart from its success at the box office, “Kelly’s Heroes” left a lasting mark on popular culture. The film’s catchy theme song, “Burning Bridges,” performed by The Mike Curb Congregation, became a hit on the music charts and is now synonymous with the film. Additionally, the movie’s unique blend of war and comedy has inspired countless filmmakers to explore similar themes and tones, cementing its place in the canon of war films.
While “Kelly’s Heroes” remained a standalone film, its enduring popularity led to a number of unofficial sequels and spin-offs, further solidifying its legacy. The film’s success paved the way for other war comedies, such as “M*A*S*H” and “Stripes,” which followed a similar formula of mixing humor with the realities of war.
In conclusion, “Kelly’s Heroes” represents a unique and influential entry in the war film genre. Its memorable characters, thrilling action sequences, and comedic elements continue to captivate audiences to this day. Brian G. Hutton’s deft direction and Troy Kennedy Martin’s sharp screenplay elevate the film beyond its wartime setting, making it a timeless classic that will continue to entertain audiences for generations to come.
