Operation Crossbow
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Movie Reviews of Operation Crossbow
Movie Review: Some Gave All...
Summary: 4 Stars
1965's "Operation Crossbow" was one of a series of 1960's British films celebrating World War II, most of which seem to have shared the same casting call. "Operation Crossbow" is a better than average dramatization of the British effort to find and shut down Nazi Germany's production of the deadly V1 and V2 revenge weapons that devastated London in 1944 and 1945.
The story begins in mid-war, as the British receive intelligence of a secret rocket production effort in the Third Reich, and proceeds on parallel tracks. In London, scientists, politicians, and military personnel breathlessly shift the meager intelligence and plot their countermoves; on a more compelling track, Allied agents are dispatched into Germany to infiltrate the German rocket program. Three agents, an American, a Brit, and a Dutchman, are hastily selected, trained, and infiltrated into Germany. Two of the agents will make it to Peenemunde, site of rocket research and development, to execute a desperate attempt to stop the project.
"Operation Crossbow" did indifferent business in the theaters but its story of wartime sacrifice holds up well with time. The movie accurately portrays the debate in London over the meaning of the limited intelligence available on the rocket program. The extended screen time given to the infiltration of the agents captures the tense atmosphere of deceit, betrayal, and ruthless security inside Germany and occupied Europe. The special effects may show their age, but the images of Peenemunde's tight security and slave labor may be eye-opening for modern audiences. George Peppard, Jeremy Kemp, and Tom Courtenay are especially effective as the agents sent on an incredibly dangerous mission into Germany. Sophia Loren has a small but compelling role as the wife of a Dutch scientist.
"Operation Crossbow" is highly recommended as a tough-minded portrayal of wartime choices and sacrifices that will be appreciated by fans of the World War II movie genre.
Movie Review: Alas a good DVD has arrived
Summary: 4 Stars
Why it took so long to get this film on a good-quality DVD I shall never understand, but here it is.
The transfer is remarkably good, considering the film is now nearly 42 years old. And even the 6-channel soundtrack on the original 70mm print has been turned into an acceptable 5.1.
The movie, although fictitious in parts, still holds up well today.
The bombing of the rocket testing location on the Baltic coast did take place, but the attack on the underground Nazi rocket factory did not. In fact, as many people already know, the factory was captured along with many of the German rocket engineers and workers. (That's how Werner von Braun came into to the U-S space program).
But, I digress. This is still well-done cinema, and comparing the DVD version the Laser Disc (which I also have) finds a welcome improvement in video and sound quality.
For any World War II buff, this film is a must.
Now, where's Triple Cross on DVD?
Movie Review: Just Off the Bullseye
Summary: 4 Stars
This is a guys-on-a-mission picture that curiously doesn't introduce the guys or the mission until half an hour into the movie. When things get going it's really good, in fact, the middle third is great and delivers some really shocking reversals. The climax is then diluted with more scenes of missiles over Britain that simply aren't as exciting.
Everyone in the international cast is sensational. If there's a standout, it's Jeremy Kemp who perfectly pivots between British effeteness and German imperiousness. I wish his role had been larger.
The DVD looks good, but hasn't been really restored.
Movie Review: Don't say action-packed
Summary: 4 Stars
Although this movie is great, action-packed is not the right words. The movie tells how three British spies infiltrated the German rocket development site for the V-1 and V-2. It has a wonderful cast including George Peppard as the main character. This movie is mostly based on fact and a great deal of care went into making it true to the story. The acting, sets, scenery, special effects, and music make it a WWII film well worth your time. So although it isn't action-packed, it keeps moving at a good pace, and should entertain the whole family. I bought the DVD and the quality is excellent. No extras are included unfortunately.Movie Review: Dont expect too much Sophia
Summary: 4 Stars
Despite the cover and top billing, Sophia Loren is barely in this at all.
Still it's a fairly compelling movie and George Peppard is great in it. Suggested for fans or retro World War 2 intrigue movies. Not as good as Where Eagles Dare, but good.
The film is presented in widescreen format and the print and audio are great.