5/4/2024

Peter Finch ("Smit") and Tony Britton ("Maj. Dillon") are charged with trying to relocate a considerable supply of Dutch diamonds to Britain after the Nazis invade the Netherlands during World War II. It's a treacherous operation as the occupying forces are keen to get hold of these gems for themselves and are closing in on them, and on their local allies - not least "Anna" (Eva Bartok). It's quite well put together, this film. There is quite a sense of menace, nobody is ever entirely sure whom they can trust and a strong supporting cast from the likes of Alexander Knox help keep it interesting, if not exactly enthralling. The score is a bit overpowering at times, and the pace dawdles a bit after about an hour - but it does pick up well towards the end. Finch is fine, as is Bartok. Tony Britton was never the most versatile of actors, but he does well enough here to keep this differently themed wartime film worth a watch.