The classic Second World War epic The Guns of Navarone will be broadcast on BBC Four tonight at 8pm. The 1961 film, based on Alistair MacLean's novel, features an ensemble cast including Gregory Peck, David Niven, and Anthony Quinn.
The story follows a small commando team tasked with destroying huge German guns on the Greek island of Navarone to rescue trapped Allied troops. Led by Major Franklin (Anthony Quayle), the team includes American mountaineer Mallory (Peck), Greek resistance fighter Stavros (Quinn), and reluctant explosives expert Miller.
The film was nominated for seven Academy Awards, winning Best Special Effects. Behind the scenes, Peck and Niven formed a strong friendship, reportedly bonding over brandy to keep warm. Peck later delivered Niven's eulogy.
Despite its age, the film retains a 92% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. One fan called it "a must-watch film for any fan of war movies," while another praised its "awesome cast, unrelenting suspense, great dialogue, good plot twists."
