SSAFA at 'The Great Escaper' Edinburgh première

06 October 2023

Based on the incredible, and poignant, true story of British World War II Royal Navy veteran Bernard Jordan – played by Sir Michael Caine – who in June 2014 “broke out” of his nursing home to attend the 70th anniversary D-Day commemorations in Normandy, The Great Escaper has been released at the cinema today (October 6).

Ahead of the general release, several premières have taken place around the country – including in Scotland – and volunteers from the Edinburgh & The Lothians Branch of SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity attended the screening by Edinburgh’s Army at The Fringe.

SSAFA Caseworkers Fran Good and Mags Granger, and Branch Chairman Walter Gallacher, were moved by the film, which co-stars the late Glenda Jackson in her last role as Bernard’s wife Irene.

No spoilers, but some thoughts on the film from SSAFA volunteers.

Mags commented that the film “… is a humorous but moving reminder that life is more than the person you see in front of you. It really is a must-see film for all those who care passionately about others and the role we play in extending a hand of support and friendship to those who need us most.”

Walter added: "It’s as if the film was made for SSAFA and similar organisations and the people who work for us and volunteer with us and for all those we help."

The Great Escaper – directed by Oliver Parker, whose credits include various adaptations of Oscar Wilde works, Johnny English Reborn, and Dad’s Army – is now on general release.