Von Ryan's Express facts for kids
Von Ryan's Express is an exciting American World War II adventure movie from 1965. It was directed by Mark Robson and is based on a book by David Westheimer. The movie stars famous actors like Frank Sinatra and Trevor Howard. It was released by 20th Century Fox and was even nominated for an Academy Award in 1966.
The film tells the thrilling story of a group of Allied prisoners of war who try to escape from Italy during World War II. Their daring plan involves taking over a train and riding it to freedom, facing many dangers along the way.
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The Story of Von Ryan's Express
The movie begins in 1943, during World War II. An American pilot named Colonel Joseph L. Ryan, played by Frank Sinatra, is shot down over Italy. He is captured and sent to a prisoner-of-war (POW) camp.
When Colonel Ryan arrives, he finds that the British prisoners are not very disciplined. He quickly takes charge, earning the nickname "Von Ryan" from the British soldiers because he is so strict.
The Daring Escape
Soon after Ryan takes command, Italy signs an armistice, meaning they are no longer fighting with Germany. This creates a chance for the prisoners to escape. The Italian guards abandon the camp, but German soldiers quickly arrive to take over.
Colonel Ryan and the other prisoners manage to overpower the Germans and escape from the camp. They then find a train and decide to hijack it. Their goal is to ride the train all the way to Switzerland, a neutral country, where they will be safe.
The Journey to Freedom
The journey on the train is full of danger and excitement. The prisoners disguise themselves as German soldiers to avoid being caught. They have to deal with German patrols, air attacks, and damaged tracks.
Colonel Ryan, along with Major Eric Fincham (played by Trevor Howard), leads the escape. They face many challenges and have to make tough decisions to keep the train moving and protect the prisoners. The movie is known for its thrilling action scenes, especially the parts where the train is speeding through enemy territory.
Cast and Crew
The movie features a talented cast who helped bring the story to life:
- Frank Sinatra as Colonel Joseph L. Ryan
- Trevor Howard as Major Eric Fincham
- Raffaella Carrà as Gabriella
- Brad Dexter as Sergeant Bostick
- Sergio Fantoni as Captain Oriani
- John Leyton as Orde
- James Brolin as Private Ames
- Edward Mulhare as Captain Costanzo
- Wolfgang Preiss as Major von Klemment
- Vito Scotti as Italian Engineer
The film was directed by Mark Robson, who was known for directing many exciting movies. The story was based on a popular novel, which helped make the movie a big success.
Images for kids
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The railway bridge in 2015.
See also
In Spanish: Von Ryan's Express (película de 1965) para niños
