In a Japanese World War II prison camp, British POWs are forced to construct a railway bridge as a morale-building exercise. Yet the real battle of wills is between "play by the rules" British colonel Nicholson, who is dedicated to the project and his American rival, who vows to destroy it. This film has solid acting, writing and directing. Alec Guinness really owns the film in his performance as Colonel Nicholson. The climax of the train wreck is still as spectacular and memorable as ever. On a side note, Alec Guinness originally turned down the role, but was finally persuaded and eventually liked the movie.
In a Japanese World War II prison camp, British POWs are forced to construct a railway bridge as a morale-building exercise. Yet the real battle of wills is between "play by the rules" British colonel Nicholson, who is dedicated to the project and his American rival, who vows to destroy it. This film has solid acting, writing and directing. Alec Guinness really owns the film in his performance as Colonel Nicholson. The climax of the train wreck is still as spectacular and memorable as ever. On a side note, Alec Guinness originally turned down the role, but was finally persuaded and eventually liked the movie.
