Introduction to Kelly’s Heroes
The 1970 war comedy film Kelly’s Heroes is a classic among movie enthusiasts, offering a blend of action, adventure, and humor. Directed by Brian G. Hutton, the film boasts an impressive cast that brings to life the story of a group of American soldiers who embark on a mission to rob a bank behind enemy lines during World War II. This blog post will delve into the cast of Kelly’s Heroes, exploring their roles and the impact of the film on their careers.
The Main Cast
The main cast of Kelly’s Heroes includes: - Clint Eastwood as Private Kelly: The central figure of the film, Kelly is a former lieutenant who comes up with the plan to rob a bank in German-occupied France. - Telly Savalas as Master Sergeant Big Joe: A tough, no-nonsense sergeant who initially opposes Kelly’s plan but eventually joins the mission. - Don Rickles as Staff Sergeant Crapgame: A lovable, wise-cracking soldier who runs the army’s black market operations and helps finance the heist. - Carroll O’Connor as General Colt: A high-ranking officer who unwittingly aids Kelly’s mission by providing them with the necessary clearance. - Donald Sutherland as Sergeant Oddball: The commander of a Sherman tank crew, Oddball joins Kelly’s team and provides comedic relief with his eccentric personality.
Supporting Cast and Their Roles
The supporting cast of Kelly’s Heroes adds depth and humor to the film: - Harry Dean Stanton as Willard: A mechanic who helps the team with their vehicles. - Joan Hackett as the German Noblewoman: Although her role is minor, she plays a significant part in the team’s plan to infiltrate the bank. - Gavin MacLeod as Moriarty: One of the soldiers who joins Kelly’s mission. - Jeff Morris as Cowboy: A member of Oddball’s tank crew. - Stuart Margolin as Little Joe: Big Joe’s younger brother, who participates in the heist.
Impact on Careers
Kelly’s Heroes marked a significant point in the careers of several cast members: - Clint Eastwood continued to establish himself as a leading man, further solidifying his tough-guy image. - Donald Sutherland gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Sergeant Oddball, showcasing his versatility as an actor. - Telly Savalas and Don Rickles remained popular for their distinctive acting styles and comedic talents. - The film also contributed to the rising fame of Carroll O’Connor, who would later star in the hit TV series “All in the Family.”
Reception and Legacy
Kelly’s Heroes received mixed reviews upon its release but has since become a cult classic. The film’s blend of war drama and comedy, along with its memorable cast, has made it a staple of 1970s cinema. It continues to appeal to audiences with its unique storyline, memorable characters, and historical context.
👍 Note: The success of Kelly's Heroes can be attributed to its well-crafted storyline, combined with the chemistry among the cast members, making it a film worth watching for both war movie enthusiasts and fans of comedy.
Behind the Scenes
The filming of Kelly’s Heroes took place in Yugoslavia, with the cast and crew facing various challenges, including language barriers and logistical issues. Despite these obstacles, the film’s director, Brian G. Hutton, managed to bring the story to life, capturing the camaraderie and tension among the characters.
| Actor | Role | Notable Works |
|---|---|---|
| Clint Eastwood | Private Kelly | Dirty Harry, The Good, the Bad and the Ugly |
| Telly Savalas | Master Sergeant Big Joe | Kojak, The Dirty Dozen |
| Don Rickles | Staff Sergeant Crapgame | Toy Story, Casino |
| Donald Sutherland | Sergeant Oddball | M*A*S*H, The Hunger Games |
In summary, the cast of Kelly’s Heroes played a crucial role in making the film a memorable and entertaining experience. Each actor brought their unique style and talent to their respective roles, contributing to the film’s enduring popularity.
What is the main plot of Kelly’s Heroes?
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Kelly’s Heroes follows a group of American soldiers during World War II who hatch a plan to rob a bank behind enemy lines in German-occupied France.
Who directed Kelly’s Heroes?
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The film was directed by Brian G. Hutton.
What are some notable works of the cast members?
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Notable works include Clint Eastwood’s Dirty Harry and The Good, the Bad and the Ugly, Telly Savalas’s Kojak, Don Rickles’s Toy Story, and Donald Sutherland’s M*A*S*H and The Hunger Games.
