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Stalag 17, directed by Billy Wilder, is a classic war movie set during World War II. It was released in 1953 and become an instant success with audiences and critics alike. The film stars William Holden, Don Taylor, and Otto Preminger, amongst other notable actors of the time. The story follows a group of American prisoners of war in Germany, specifically in Stalag 17. The men are a motley crew of characters, with different personalities and backgrounds, but they all share one goal: to escape captivity. They pass their time in the prison camp by playing cards, scheming, and trying to outsmart the Germans.

The plot thickens when it becomes clear that there is a spy among the prisoners, tipping off the Germans about their escape plans. Suspicions mount, and the men begin to turn on each other, each one accusing their cellmate of being the traitor. The situation becomes even more complicated when a group of new prisoners arrives, led by Lieutenant Dunbar (Don Taylor), who immediately clashes with the rest of the group.

William Holden plays the role of Sergeant J.J. Sefton, a cynical and self-centered prisoner who seems to have it all figured out. Sefton is a black market trader who is willing to do anything to make a profit, even if it means betraying his fellow prisoners. He is a loner, disliked by the rest of the men, but he remains confident in his abilities to survive.

The film explores the themes of loyalty, betrayal, and survival in wartime. The tension builds as the men try to figure out who the spy is and how to escape without being caught. The characters are well-drawn and complex, each with their own motivations and secrets. The dialogue is sharp and witty, balancing humor with the seriousness of the war.

One of the standout performances in the film is by Robert Strauss, who plays Animal, a loud and boisterous prisoner with a heart of gold. He provides many of the laughs in the film, but he also has a touching vulnerability that comes through in later scenes.

The film also features a striking visual style, with atmospheric lighting and shadowy cinematography. The prison camp is depicted as a claustrophobic and oppressive environment, where danger lurks around every corner. The film uses sound to great effect as well, with haunting music and sound effects that heighten the tension.

Overall, Stalag 17 is a gripping and memorable war movie that stands the test of time. Its themes and characters are as relevant today as they were in 1953, and its unique blend of humor and drama make it an unforgettable cinematic experience. The film holds a special place in the history of Hollywood, earning critical acclaim and cementing its place as a classic of the genre.

In 1954, William Holden won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Sergeant J.J. Sefton, cementing the film's place in cinematic history. The film has also been lauded for its complex, well-drawn characters and its masterful blend of drama and humor.

Stalag 17 is a must-see for fans of the war movie genre, but it is also a film that will appeal to anyone who appreciates memorable characters and masterful storytelling.

Stalag 17 is a 1953 comedy with a runtime of 2 hours. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.0 and a MetaScore of 84.