The Great Escape — Movie Quotes

Spoken by the senior British officer, Ramsey, to the camp Commandant, Colonel von Luger, at the beginning of the film, setting the stage for the conflict and the prisoners' unyielding mindset.

This quote succinctly outlines the prisoners' philosophy and the film's central theme. It establishes that their escape attempts are not just about personal freedom but are a strategic act of war, a duty to continue fighting even while captive.

Von Luger says this to Ramsey upon the prisoners' arrival, explaining the purpose of Stalag Luft III and expressing his belief that he can contain them.

This line from the Commandant establishes the premise of the film: the Germans have gathered the most notorious Allied escape artists into one high-security camp. It's a statement of confidence that ironically foreshadows the massive, organized escape they will soon face.

This conversation takes place during Hilts' first meeting with Von Luger, after Hilts has already made it clear he intends to escape. His cheeky response earns him his first trip to the cooler.

This witty exchange perfectly captures Hilts' rebellious and defiant American character. It highlights the cultural clash between the German sense of order and the American's casual insubordination, establishing Hilts as a key antagonist to the camp authorities.