An often-overlooked war film featuring a surprising A-list lead is set for a television broadcast this New Year's Eve. 'Force 10 From Navarone', starring Harrison Ford in a pivotal role he took on immediately after 'Star Wars', will air on ITV4 at 7.25pm on December 31.
A Sequel With Big Shoes to Fill
Released in 1978 and directed by Guy Hamilton, the movie served as the much-anticipated follow-up to the massively successful 1961 film, 'The Guns of Navarone'. Loosely based on Alistair MacLean's novel of the same name, it features an all-star cast including Robert Shaw and Edward Fox, reprising their roles as Mallory and Miller.
The plot finds the duo attached to an elite US military unit, Force 10, commanded by Colonel Barnsby, played by Harrison Ford. Their mission is to hunt down an escaped Nazi spy whom only they can identify. The mission becomes more perilous behind enemy lines, complicated when Barnsby develops feelings for a Russian resistance fighter, Maritza, portrayed by Barbara Bach.
Ford's Post-Star Wars Gamble
This film marked a conscious career choice for Harrison Ford. Fresh from his galactic fame as Han Solo, he accepted the role to avoid being typecast in science fiction. He later reflected on the experience with mixed feelings, calling it an "honest effort" but admitting he felt lost in the part.
"I didn't know what the story was about. I didn't have anything to act," Ford said. "There was no reason for my character being there. I had no part of the story that was important to tell."
Tragically, the film was the final screen appearance for Robert Shaw before his untimely death. Shaw himself expressed dissatisfaction during production, stating he was "appalled at some of the lines" and seriously considered it might be his last film.
From Box Office Flop to Cult Appreciation
Upon release, 'Force 10 From Navarone' was not a box office success, earning only about a quarter of what its predecessor made. The author of the source novel was reportedly unimpressed, and critics were largely cool.
However, time has been kinder to this wartime adventure. It now holds a 68% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with modern critics and fans reappraising its merits. Reviews highlight Ford's commanding presence and the film's explosive action sequences.
Fans have passionately defended the movie online. One viewer recalled a standing ovation in an army base theatre during a key scene, while others praise it as an "underrated" and "guilty pleasure" filled with stellar performances, dramatic set-pieces, and classic war movie tension.
For those seeking action and a slice of cinematic history this New Year's Eve, ITV4 offers a chance to revisit this intriguing chapter in the careers of Harrison Ford and Robert Shaw.
