In a North African military prison during World War II, five new prisoners struggle to survive in the face of brutal punishment and sadistic guards.In a North African military prison during World War II, five new prisoners struggle to survive in the face of brutal punishment and sadistic guards.In a North African military prison during World War II, five new prisoners struggle to survive in the face of brutal punishment and sadistic guards.
- Won 1 BAFTA Award
- 4 wins & 6 nominations total
Michael Redgrave
- The Medical Officer
- (as Sir Michael Redgrave)
Michael Hawkins
- Prisoner
- (uncredited)
James Payne
- Man in Prison
- (uncredited)
Robert Royal
- Prisoner
- (uncredited)
Harold Sanderson
- Officer
- (uncredited)
Storyline
Did you know
- TriviaFilming took place in Almería, Spain in a sandy wasteland called Cabo de Gata starting in September 1964 for five weeks on location. An old Spanish fort in Málaga was used for the prison.
Many people associated with the production had regarded the filming as pleasant, despite difficult conditions---The temperatures rarely fell below 115 degrees Fahrenheit (46 degrees Celsius), and despite the 2,000 gallons of pure water that were shipped in for the crew, almost everyone succumbed to dysentery during the shoot.
- GoofsWhen fat Bartlett (Roy Kinnear) is trying to climb the rope, Stevens (Alfred Lynch), who is supposed to be despondent and exhausted, can be seen in line suppressing a broad, amused smile.
- Quotes
Trooper Joe Roberts: We're all doing time. Even the screws.
- Alternate versionsColorized version was broadcast over TNT Network June 7, 1989.
- ConnectionsFeatured in The Sun... the Sand... the Hill. (1965)
Featured review
Gritty emotional story of men being subjected to ill treatment at a British Army disciplinary camp in the desert. Human drama is of interest to anyone who has been a cog in a corporate machine, not just a veteran. Symbolic of human defiance in the face of rigid rules and inconsiderate authority.
Excellent cast takes every opportunity of limited time frame to give their characters amazing depth. Every character is fully realized and recognizable by anyone who has a few tough life experiences.
Naturally as good as the other actors are, the focus will always be on Connery's screen presence. Here he seems to be portraying his true personality, his face never suited Bond as much. Tough, self respecting and self disciplined sergeant who resolves not to lose his dignity in the face of harsh cruelty. This is an amazing performance, and it's too bad we don't use men like this as role models in modern American society.
As good as the performances are, the best thing about this film is the photography---check out the 360 degree camera movement during the opening sequence. It's a masterpiece which is rare to see even today.
Excellent cast takes every opportunity of limited time frame to give their characters amazing depth. Every character is fully realized and recognizable by anyone who has a few tough life experiences.
Naturally as good as the other actors are, the focus will always be on Connery's screen presence. Here he seems to be portraying his true personality, his face never suited Bond as much. Tough, self respecting and self disciplined sergeant who resolves not to lose his dignity in the face of harsh cruelty. This is an amazing performance, and it's too bad we don't use men like this as role models in modern American society.
As good as the performances are, the best thing about this film is the photography---check out the 360 degree camera movement during the opening sequence. It's a masterpiece which is rare to see even today.
- How long is The Hill?Powered by Alexa
Details
Box office
- Budget
- $2,500,000 (estimated)
- Runtime2 hours 3 minutes
- Color
- Aspect ratio
- 1.85 : 1
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