Escape to Athena
Escape to Athena

Escape to Athena

1979
Movie
125 min
English

During the World War II, the prisoners of a German camp in a Greek island are trying to escape. They not only want their freedom, but also seek an ineffable treasure hidden in a monastery at the summit of the island's mountain.

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Insights

IMDb5.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes33%
Google Users67%
Director: George P. CosmatosGenres: Action, Adventure, Comedy, War

Plot Summary

During World War II, a German concentration camp on a Greek island is run by a ruthless SS commander who is secretly involved in black market dealings with a Greek resistance fighter. When Allied prisoners plan an escape during a planned Nazi art heist, they find themselves caught between the Germans, the resistance, and each other.

Critical Reception

Escape to Athena received a mixed to negative reception from critics, with some finding its blend of war and comedy tonally inconsistent, while others appreciated its lighthearted adventure spirit and star-studded cast. Audiences generally found it an entertaining, if somewhat silly, war-time romp.

What Reviewers Say

  • Critics were divided on the film's comedic and action elements, often finding the tone uneven.
  • The star power of Roger Moore and Telly Savalas was noted, though not always enough to elevate the material.
  • Some found the plot convoluted, with elements of black market dealings and a heist overshadowing the war setting.

Google audience: Audiences generally found the film to be a fun, escapist adventure with some amusing moments, though some noted its plot holes and less serious take on wartime.

Fun Fact

The film was shot on location on the island of Rhodes, Greece, and features stunning Mediterranean scenery.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

I can just imagine Telly Savalas getting a few of his pals around a table for some ouzo on the rocks and suggesting they set a comedy-adventure film on a Greek island so they can all get a tan whilst he exudes his obvious pride in his homel...