Fans of classic cinema and wartime drama are in for a treat this weekend, as the BBC is set to broadcast a critically acclaimed masterpiece from the golden age of film.
A Classic War Epic Revisited
This afternoon, BBC2 will air the 1953 war film 'The Desert Rats' at 3.35pm. Directed by the renowned Robert Wise, the movie features an all-star cast including Richard Burton, James Mason, and Robert Newton.
The film dramatises the real-life Siege of Tobruk in 1941, a pivotal moment in the North African campaign of World War II. The plot follows the 9th Australian Division as they are tasked with defending the vital port city from the advancing Nazi Afrika Korps, led by General Erwin Rommel.
Richard Burton's Standout Performance
At the heart of the story is Captain MacRoberts, portrayed by the legendary Richard Burton. MacRoberts is a no-nonsense British officer given command of a battalion of inexperienced Australian troops. The narrative charts his initial struggle to earn their respect and the unit's transformation as the brutal siege forces their bravery to the fore.
Burton's performance is widely considered a career highlight. Critics have praised his ability to bring profound emotional depth to the role, with one review on Rotten Tomatoes hailing him as 'one of the greatest actors to have ever lived'.
Universal Acclaim and Perfect Score
The film has earned a remarkable 100 per cent rating on the review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes. Critics and audiences alike celebrate its powerful impact.
One reviewer noted the film's 'great cast, good fight scenes and thrilling classic' appeal, while another highlighted its thematic strength, stating it shows 'how a man with reduced self-esteem can step up and play his part'.
The film is lauded for its balance of epic battle sequences and poignant, character-driven dialogue, securing its place among the upper echelons of WWII films like 'The Bridge On The River Kwai'.
For an afternoon of gripping, adrenaline-fuelled viewing that combines historical drama with stellar acting, be sure to tune into BBC2 at 3.35pm today to watch this unforgettable classic.
