MGM destroys half of Yugoslavia, in overlong, bubble gum comedy war film, good to see from pre-CGI days, 'jokes' not great. Clint Eastwood discovers there's $16 million in gold bars in a bank behind German lines, persuades Telly Savalas and platoon to go after it, joined by 'Oddball' and his men - a young Donald Sutherland. Cue tanks and lots of things blowing up.
I was expecting the ironic sting in the tale ending, but didn't get one, though German tank officer sharing in the loot is a good touch. Best bit is excitement of US General Caroll O'Connor at hearing that two independent platoons were pushing into enemy territory, fighting the war the way it should be fought.
Photographed by Gabriel Figueroa, written by Troy Kennedy-Martin, music by Lalo Schifrin, edited by John Jympson, John Landis an uncredited assistant director, Jonathan Bates the sound editor - so not uninteresting credits. Memorable song 'Burning Bridges' by Mike Curb Congregation, music by Schifrin.
Amongst large cast - Don Rickles, (Harry) Dean Stanton.
The spaghetti Western pastiche tank showdown is ludicrous.
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