EPISODE · Nov 11, 2025 · 46 MIN
Escape to Victory (1981) - The WWII POW Cult Classic and the Real History Behind it
from The Historical Movies Podcast
What happens when Allied POWs take on Nazi Germany... in a football match? Escape to Victory (1980) — directed by John Huston and starring Michael Caine, Sylvester Stallone and Pelé — brings together war film, sports movie and propaganda spectacle.We look at the true story behind Escape to Victory, including the so-called “Death Match” in occupied Ukraine, and whether Stallone really could have scored the winning goal, despite being a goalkeeper.Plus: how many goals would VAR have overturned, Michael Caine’s questionable fitness, and the reason why there are SO MANY Ipswich Town players in this movie!📩 Got theories about Pelé’s tactical genius or Stallone’s goalkeeping credentials? Drop us a line at [email protected] or @hmpodcast.bsky.social.
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Escape to Victory (1981) - The WWII POW Cult Classic and the Real History Behind it
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