Full Transcript for Escape with Humor: 'The Password Is Courage' (1962) Review

WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:02.560 Welcome to Mindset Movie Reviews. 00:00:02.720 --> 00:00:06.320 Today we're going to review The Password is Courage. 00:00:08.160 --> 00:00:11.759 The Password is Courage, directed by Andrew L. 00:00:11.919 --> 00:00:23.039 Stone, is a nineteen sixty two film that blends comedy, drama and war genres to tell the story of a British officer's daring escapades during World War II. 00:00:23.280 --> 00:00:33.679 Based on the real life experiences of Sergeant Major Charles Coward, the film follows his relentless attempts to escape from German captivity. 00:00:33.840 --> 00:00:46.479 Played by Dirk Bogard, Coward is a fascinating character who manages to be both a thorn in the side of his captors and a source of inspiration for his fellow prisoners. 00:00:48.399 --> 00:00:58.159 The film is often compared to The Great Escape, and while it shares thematic similarities, it stands on its own as a unique narrative. 00:00:58.719 --> 00:01:08.400 Released a year before The Great Escape, the password is courage is based on true events, with Coward himself serving as a consultant. 00:01:08.719 --> 00:01:15.280 This authenticity adds a layer of intrigue, although some sequences may stretch believability. 00:01:15.519 --> 00:01:23.680 The film's episodic nature, with its frequent changes in setting and introduction of new characters, can feel disjointed at times. 00:01:23.840 --> 00:01:31.840 However, Bogard's performance as Coward is consistently engaging, even if the supporting characters lack depth. 00:01:33.519 --> 00:01:38.640 The film's tone is a curious mix of lighthearted comedy and serious drama. 00:01:38.879 --> 00:01:46.400 While the comedic elements can feel strained, they provide a sense of levity that makes the film more accessible. 00:01:46.560 --> 00:01:53.760 The slapstick-like events and characters might not appeal to everyone, but they contribute to the film's charm. 00:01:54.000 --> 00:02:05.439 Despite its low budget production, the film employs creative solutions to maintain visual interest, though it occasionally struggles to maintain a cohesive narrative flow. 00:02:07.200 --> 00:02:08.000 Andrew L. 00:02:08.159 --> 00:02:16.560 Stone, who also wrote and produced the film, captures the spirit of Coward's memoir with a screenplay that balances humor and tension. 00:02:16.800 --> 00:02:25.680 The film's black and white cinematography, shot by Davis Bolton, adds a touch of realism, though it may have been a cost-saving measure. 00:02:25.840 --> 00:02:33.199 The film's locations, primarily in England, stand in for the German settings, adding an ironic twist to the production. 00:02:35.360 --> 00:02:45.120 While The Password is Courage may not be a classic, it offers an enjoyable viewing experience for those interested in wartime stories with a comedic twist. 00:02:45.360 --> 00:02:53.199 The film's light-hearted approach makes it an easy watch, even if it lacks the suspense and polish of other prisoner of war films. 00:02:53.439 --> 00:03:00.960 For fans of Dirk Bogard or those curious about lesser-known World War II tales, this film is worth a look. 00:03:01.199 --> 00:03:09.520 It may not leave a lasting impression, but it provides a pleasant diversion with its blend of humor and historical intrigue. 00:03:11.759 --> 00:03:19.199 And that's my take on The Password is Courage, and I'm giving it 3.5 stars out of a maximum of 5 stars. 00:03:21.039 --> 00:03:22.159 Thanks for listening.