10 Movies and Shows Similar to Kelly’s Heroes (1970)

Description: Like 'Kelly's Heroes', this prisoner-of-war film blends serious war themes with humor and camaraderie. Both feature resourceful soldiers outsmarting their captors/enemies, though 'Stalag 17' is set entirely in a POW camp.

Fact: Based on a Broadway play which was based on real experiences. William Holden won the Best Actor Oscar for his role. The film inspired the TV series 'Hogan's Heroes'.

Description: This classic shares with 'Kelly's Heroes' themes of military duty, honor, and the absurdity of war. Both films feature soldiers undertaking construction projects (a bridge vs. tank maintenance) that become central to the plot. The jungle setting provides a different but equally challenging environment.

Fact: Won 7 Academy Awards including Best Picture. Alec Guinness based his performance on his WWII experiences. The bridge was built twice - once in England and once in Ceylon (Sri Lanka).

Description: This classic war film shares with 'Kelly's Heroes' the theme of a small group undertaking a seemingly impossible mission. Both feature diverse characters with specialized skills working together against overwhelming odds. The Mediterranean setting provides a different but equally dramatic backdrop.

Fact: Based on Alistair MacLean's first novel. The film was shot on location in Rhodes. It won an Oscar for Best Special Effects.

Description: Like 'Kelly's Heroes', this film focuses on a group of Allied soldiers working together against the odds. Both movies balance serious war themes with lighter, humorous moments. The ensemble cast and their interactions are central to both stories.

Fact: Based on a true story of a mass escape from Stalag Luft III. Steve McQueen did most of his own motorcycle stunts. The film was shot in Germany, near the actual location of the real escape.

Description: Similar to 'Kelly's Heroes' in its ensemble cast of misfits undertaking a dangerous mission during WWII. Both films blend action, humor, and a sense of camaraderie among soldiers. The heist-like mission in 'The Dirty Dozen' mirrors the gold heist plot in 'Kelly's Heroes'.

Fact: The film was based on a novel of the same name. It was one of the highest-grossing films of

Description: Shares the WWII setting and a mission-oriented plot with 'Kelly's Heroes'. Both films feature a group of soldiers on a daring operation behind enemy lines, with a mix of action and suspense. The snowy alpine setting provides a visually striking backdrop similar to the varied landscapes in 'Kelly's Heroes'.

Fact: The screenplay was written by Alistair MacLean, who also wrote the novel. Clint Eastwood's character was originally written as British, but was changed to American to suit the actor. The cable car scenes were filmed using miniatures.

Description: While more biographical in nature, 'Patton' shares with 'Kelly's Heroes' the WWII setting and examination of military leadership. Both films were released in 1970 and reflect the changing attitudes toward war in cinema during that era.

Fact: George C. Scott won but refused the Best Actor Oscar. The opening monologue was filmed in front of a real American flag. Francis Ford Coppola co-wrote the screenplay.

Description: Shares with 'Kelly's Heroes' the theme of a covert mission behind enemy lines, though with a more serious tone. Both films feature German and Allied perspectives, and both play with the idea of soldiers operating outside conventional military structures.

Fact: Based on the novel by Jack Higgins. Michael Caine turned down the lead role in 'A Bridge Too Far' to make this film. The village scenes were filmed in England, standing in for Norfolk.

Description: Like 'Kelly's Heroes', this epic war film features an all-star cast and focuses on a daring military operation. While more serious in tone, it shares the large-scale battle sequences and the portrayal of soldiers from different backgrounds coming together.

Fact: Based on the book by Cornelius Ryan. The film's budget was $25 million, making it one of the most expensive films at the time. Sean Connery broke his ankle during filming but continued working.

Description: Quentin Tarantino's film shares with 'Kelly's Heroes' an irreverent take on WWII, blending intense action with dark humor. Both feature unconventional military units operating behind enemy lines, and both play fast and loose with historical accuracy for entertainment value.

Fact: The title is intentionally misspelled. Christoph Waltz learned German, French, and English for his role. The film's opening scene is one continuous 20-minute take.