Michael Caine and the late Glenda Jackson star in a moving trailer for their upcoming film The Great Escaper, which is inspired by an extraordinary true story.

Advertisement

The new feature follows veteran Bernard Jordan (Caine) as he snuck out of his care home to return to Normandy, where 70 years earlier he had bravely stormed the beaches as part of the D-Day Landings.

His so-called "great escape" was the subject of much media attention, but many reports failed to capture the long-held trauma that motivated Bernard to make the daring journey.

Conversely, his beloved wife Rene (Jackson) completely understood the closure he required, although was not well enough to accompany him personally.

RadioTimes.com has your exclusive first look at The Great Escaper trailer, which showcases a blend of powerful reflection on a terrible conflict and moments of warm-hearted comic relief between the two leads. Watch now above.

This will be Jackson's final screen role, released posthumously, as the celebrated actor sadly passed away last month aged 87.

She was a two-time Oscar winner for 1970's Women in Love and 1973's A Touch of Class, but retired from acting in 1991 to pursue a career in politics – becoming a member of Parliament for the Labour Party the following year.

The Great Escaper, which completed filming prior to Jackson's death, served as a reunion for herself and Caine, who previously collaborated on 1975 drama The Romantic Englishwoman.

Director Oliver Parker (Dad's Army) told The Guardian that Jackson was able to see the completed film before she passed away and was "delighted" with the result.

He added: "I feel incredibly fortunate to have her in the film. She gives an unbelievable performance. It’s hard to believe there won’t be another."

Read More

The Great Escaper is coming to UK cinemas on 6th October 2023. Check out more of our Film coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on.

Advertisement

Try Radio Times magazine today and get 12 issues for only £1 with delivery to your home – subscribe now. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.

Authors

David Craig
David CraigSenior Drama Writer

David Craig is the Senior Drama Writer for Radio Times, covering the latest and greatest scripted drama and comedy across television and streaming. Previously, he worked at Starburst Magazine, presented The Winter King Podcast for ITVX and studied Journalism at the University of Sheffield.

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement