MovieChat Forums > Colditz (2005) Discussion > POWS caught trying to escape

POWS caught trying to escape


I cant believe that the Nazis did not kill the pows after trying to escape. Not only that, they dont execute them on their second or third attempt even after stating that they would be executed if they tried again! How realistic is this? Im pretty sure the Nazis would kill any POW trying to escape for discipline and deterrance.

reply

This is based on true events. The inmates weren't Jews, but army officers. Fellow soldiers. It was understood that it was their duty to try to escape.

Mor

reply

The Great Escape features a POW camp where many of the occupants are failed escappes - some in the 12-20 attempts range. Many were killed - but many were just recaptured. Also in The great Escape - they drive a load of teh re-captured off to a field and feed them machine gun bullets... so eventually... executions are more common.

World War 2 Movie timeline - The List!

http://www.imdb.com/list/UKAt1E8ul88/

reply

Colditz was for the high value prisoners, that could be used by the high command as bargaining peices for if and when the war went badly. You do not execute high prized prisoners no matter how upset they make you. You also return escaped prisoners back to the camp they escaped from to depress the remaining inmates. Obviously a crap film if these 2 basic features are missing in the plot.

reply

I don't think the Nazis kill pow's like they showed in the Geat Escape with the machine gun or by the truck load. From all I've heard about the escapers that were murdered, it was done in ones and twos with pistol shot to the head.

"Gentlemen, This is a War Room, There's no fighting allowed in Here!"

reply

It is true you would never kill a high value prisoner ... but I found myself wondering why the Germs would hold onto Pols? Unlike GB & the US Poland was occupied by Germany so there is no accountability issue.

reply