War has always been a subject of great fascination for filmmakers and audiences alike. It provides a backdrop for exploring the human condition, the complexities of heroism, and the moral ambiguities that arise in times of conflict. One film that masterfully combines all these elements is "Kelly's Heroes," a 1970 classic that seamlessly blends the dark humor of war with the thrill of a heist. Directed by Brian G. Hutton, this film has left an indelible mark on the war film genre and continues to be celebrated for its unique blend of action, comedy, and adventure. In this exploration of "Kelly's Heroes," we will delve into the film's background, its remarkable cast, and the impact it had on the cinematic landscape of the 1970s and beyond. We will also analyze its portrayal of war, the characters, and the thematic elements that have made it a beloved classic.
Setting the Stage
"Kelly's Heroes" takes place during World War II, in the midst of the European theater of operations. The film follows a group of American soldiers who embark on a daring mission behind enemy lines to steal a cache of gold bullion from a German-held bank. It is a departure from the traditional war film in that it focuses not on grand battles but on a smaller, more personal mission.
The film's screenplay, written by Troy Kennedy-Martin, presents a unique blend of war, comedy, and caper genres, offering something for a wide range of tastes. The script went through several revisions, and its final form managed to maintain a balance between humor and the darker aspects of war, giving the audience a fresh perspective on the genre.
The Director and Cast
Brian G. Hutton, known for his work on films like "Where Eagles Dare" (1968), took the helm as the director of "Kelly's Heroes." Hutton's experience with war films gave him a unique perspective on how to bring the story to life. He was instrumental in maintaining the film's comedic and adventurous spirit while ensuring it didn't undermine the gravity of the war itself.
The film boasts a stellar cast of actors who brought its characters to life:
Clint Eastwood as Kelly: Eastwood's portrayal of the film's namesake, Private Kelly, is central to the movie's success. His character is the driving force behind the gold heist, and Eastwood's charismatic performance blends his signature tough-guy image with a touch of humor.
Telly Savalas as Big Joe: Savalas plays the role of the no-nonsense, cigar-chomping Master Sergeant, Big Joe. His stern yet likable character provides a strong contrast to Kelly's more laid-back approach.
Don Rickles as Crapgame: Known for his stand-up comedy, Rickles takes on the role of Crapgame, a peddler with a knack for scavenging goods in the midst of war. His humor adds a layer of comic relief to the film.
Donald Sutherland as Oddball: Sutherland's character, Oddball, is a tank commander with a penchant for philosophical musings and an unabashed love for music. His unique persona is a memorable addition to the ensemble.
Gavin MacLeod as Moriarty: MacLeod plays Moriarty, a soldier with a penchant for explosives, adding an extra layer of action and comedy to the story.
Carroll O'Connor as General Colt: O'Connor takes on the role of the high-ranking officer whose questionable decisions kickstart the heist mission.
Filming Challenges
The film's production was not without its challenges. The movie was shot on location in Yugoslavia, which stood in for the war-torn French countryside.
The rugged terrain and the logistical difficulties of filming in a foreign country added to the complexity of the project. Yet, these challenges contributed to the authenticity of the film, providing a realistic and immersive backdrop for the action.
Comedy in War
"Kelly's Heroes" takes a unique approach to the war film genre by infusing it with comedy. While war is generally a solemn subject, the film successfully integrates humor without undermining the gravity of the conflict itself. This approach was instrumental in differentiating "Kelly's Heroes" from other war films of its time.
The characters, particularly Oddball and Crapgame, bring comic relief to the story without resorting to over-the-top slapstick or gags. Their humor is rooted in the absurdity of war itself, and their interactions with the other soldiers provide moments of levity amidst the chaos.
A Heist in a War Zone
At its core, "Kelly's Heroes" is a heist film set against the backdrop of war. The soldiers embark on a daring mission behind enemy lines to steal a cache of gold bullion. The heist elements of the film introduce suspense, intrigue, and a sense of adventure, akin to classic caper films. This unique blend of war and heist genres makes the movie stand out.
The heist itself is a well-executed sequence, filled with tension and unexpected obstacles. It keeps the audience on the edge of their seats, and the camaraderie among the soldiers adds an extra layer of emotional investment in the success of their mission.
Subverting War Tropes
"Kelly's Heroes" subverts many traditional war film tropes. Rather than focusing on a grand battle or the heroism of soldiers in the thick of combat, the film centers on a smaller, more personal mission. This shift in focus allows the characters to shine in a different light. They are not the usual war heroes; they are flawed, resourceful, and often motivated by personal gain.
This subversion extends to the portrayal of the enemy. Instead of depicting the Germans as faceless villains, the film includes moments that humanize them. Oddball's interactions with German soldiers, for instance, highlight the shared experience of being caught in the chaos of war.
The Nature of Heroism
"Kelly's Heroes" explores the nature of heroism in a war setting. Unlike the traditional war film where heroism is often portrayed as selfless acts of courage in the heat of battle, the characters in this film are driven by personal motivations. Kelly and his team are willing to risk their lives not for their country, but for the promise of riches. This unconventional take on heroism prompts the audience to question what it means to be a hero.
Camaraderie and Friendship
Throughout the film, the camaraderie among the soldiers is a central theme. The diverse group of characters, each with their quirks and flaws, forms a tight-knit team. Their loyalty to one another is evident, and their interactions are marked by humor, banter, and genuine care. The film underscores the idea that even in the midst of chaos and conflict, bonds of friendship and camaraderie can flourish.
The Absurdity of War
"Kelly's Heroes" does not shy away from highlighting the absurdity of war. From soldiers trading goods and services in the midst of battle to the surreal sight of soldiers riding into battle on a Sherman tank while blaring music, the film presents a world where the rules of war are bent and broken. These moments of absurdity serve as a commentary on the often senseless and irrational nature of conflict.
Legacy and Impact
Over the years, "Kelly's Heroes" has earned a dedicated following. Its unique blend of genres, memorable characters, and witty dialogue have solidified its status as a cult classic. Fans of the film appreciate its ability to tackle the serious subject of war with a dose of humor and adventure.
"Kelly's Heroes" had a notable impact on the war film genre. It paved the way for other films that sought to combine action, comedy, and adventure in a wartime setting. Films like "Three Kings" (1999) and "Inglourious Basterds" (2009) have drawn inspiration from the film's ability to weave humor and suspense into a war narrative.
The film also played a significant role in Clint Eastwood's career. It showcased his versatility as an actor, proving that he could excel in roles that went beyond his tough-guy image. Eastwood's performance as Kelly contributed to his reputation as a leading man and a versatile actor who could handle a wide range of roles.
Conclusion
"Kelly's Heroes" is a classic film that defies traditional war film conventions. Its unique blend of comedy, adventure, and heist elements set against the backdrop of World War II has earned it a special place in the hearts of film enthusiasts. The film's exploration of heroism, camaraderie, and the absurdity of war continues to resonate with audiences, making it a timeless classic that has left a lasting legacy on the war film genre.
While war will always be a solemn subject, "Kelly's Heroes" reminds us that even in the darkest of times, there is room for laughter, camaraderie, and unexpected heroism. It challenges our preconceived notions of what a war film can be and continues to captivate audiences with its unique charm and enduring relevance.