304. Grand Illusion (1937)

Frequently named by filmmakers and critics as one of the greatest films ever made, Jean Renoir’s classic tale of French soldiers in a World War I German POW camp and their daring escape is now almost 90 years old. Its importance to film history is certain — but is it still fun to watch?

While much of Grand Illusion is unique, especially its bittersweet farewell to the pre-WWI European aristocratic order, it has directly influenced countless movies, including The Great Escape and The Shawshank Redemption, does it offer any surprises or unexpected delights to a new generation?

Get set for an impassioned discussion across generations where one thing becomes clear: this film’s preoccupations are immensely relevant to our world today.

Hosts: Mark Netter & David Tausik

Panelists:  Guy Lewis, Kylee LaRue, Cohlie Brocato

An ElectraCast Production

Trailer: https://youtu.be/vcO8rEjoG0c

Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/La_Grande_Illusion

IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0028950/reference/

97% on Rotten Tomatoes: https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/la_grande_illusion

Ebert Review: https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/great-movie-grand-illusion-1937

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