Originally intended as a training film, this, in parts humorous, war story, based on a screenplay by Eric Ambler and Peter Ustinov, tells of the light-hearted tomfoolery, which soon gives way to the grim realities of life on the most dangerous battlegrounds of the Second World War. - fr cover

"World War II is impending, but most Britons don't believe it; while a few, including petrol-pumper Jim Perry, are busily training for the new British army. After Dunkirk, Lieut. Perry finds himself training others, mostly recruits who as yet don't take the war seriously. They soon learn that training under Perry and Sergeant Fletcher is serious business. Our platoon secretly embarks on an eventful voyage to North Africa, and contact with the enemy nears... "by R. C.

Director:Carol Reed
Writers:
Eric Ambler (screenplay)
Eric Ambler (story)

Cast overview, first billed only:
David Niven ... Lieutenant Jim Perry
Stanley Holloway ... Pvt. Ted Brewer
James Donald ... Pvt. Evans Lloyd
John Laurie ... Pvt. Luke
Leslie Dwyer ... Pvt. Sid Beck
Hugh Burden ... Pvt. Bill Parsons
Jimmy Hanley ... Pvt. Geoffrey Stainer (as Jimmie Hanley)
William Hartnell ... Sgt. Ned Fletcher (as Billy Hartnell)
Reginald Tate ... The Training Company Commanding Officer
Leo Genn ... Captain Edwards
John Ruddock ... Old Chelsea Soldier
A. Bromley Davenport ... Old Chelsea Soldier (as Bromley Davenport)
Renée Asherson ... Marjorie Gillingham (as Renee Asherson)
Mary Jerrold ... Mrs. Gillingham
Tessie O'Shea ... Herself - ENSA Entertainer


Country:UK
Language:English
Release Date:3 June 1945 (USA)
Also Known As:The Immortal Battalion
Runtime:
Sound Mix:Mono (Western Electric Mirrophonic Recording)
Color:Black and White