Written by Meade Shubert
Modified & Updated: 05 Mar 2024
Reviewed by Sherman Smith
Ice Cold in Alex is a classic war film that has captivated audiences with its gripping storyline and memorable characters. Released in 1958, the movie takes place during World War II and follows a group of British soldiers as they make a treacherous journey across the scorching North African desert. Directed by J. Lee Thompson, Ice Cold in Alex is hailed as one of the finest war films ever made, combining elements of adventure, drama, and suspense. With its realistic portrayal of the harsh conditions faced by soldiers and a compelling narrative, the movie has stood the test of time and continues to be celebrated for its compelling storytelling and strong performances. In this article, we will delve deeper into this cinematic gem and uncover 30 fascinating facts about Ice Cold in Alex.
Key Takeaways:
- “Ice Cold in Alex” is a classic British war film set in World War II, praised for its realistic portrayal of the challenges faced by soldiers and its gripping narrative.
- The movie explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the human spirit amidst the chaos of war, making it a must-watch for fans of war films.
Fact 1
Ice Cold in Alex is a British war film set in the height of World War II. Directed by J. Lee Thompson, it was released in 1958.
Fact 2
The movie is based on a novel of the same name by Christopher Landon.
Fact 3
Ice Cold in Alex stars John Mills, Sylvia Syms, Anthony Quayle, and Harry Andrews.
Fact 4
It tells the story of a British Army officer and his companions who try to reach safety in Alexandria, Egypt, during the North African Campaign.
Fact 5
The film’s title refers to the character Captain Anson’s quest for a cold beer in Alexandria.
Fact 6
Ice Cold in Alex was critically acclaimed and won the Grand Prize at the 1958 Berlin International Film Festival.
Fact 7
The movie has a runtime of approximately 130 minutes.
Fact 8
The desert scenes in the film were shot in Libya.
Fact 9
Ice Cold in Alex was praised for its realistic portrayal of the challenges faced by soldiers during war.
Fact 10
The film’s cinematography, particularly the shots of the desert, received high praise from critics.
Fact 11
Ice Cold in Alex was one of the first British films to deal directly with the subject of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Fact 12
The movie explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the human spirit amidst the chaos of war.
Fact 13
Ice Cold in Alex was a box office success upon its release and remains a beloved classic in British cinema.
Fact 14
It was nominated for three BAFTA Awards, including Best British Film, Best British Actor for John Mills, and Best Film from Any Source.
Fact 15
The film’s gripping climax, set in a minefield, is considered one of its most memorable scenes.
Fact 16
Ice Cold in Alex is known for its realistic and restrained approach to depicting war, setting it apart from other war films of its time.
Fact 17
The movie explores the physical and psychological toll that war takes on its characters.
Fact 18
Ice Cold in Alex has been praised for its strong performances, especially from John Mills in the lead role.
Fact 19
The film’s score, composed by Malcolm Arnold, adds to its tension and emotional impact.
Fact 20
Ice Cold in Alex showcases the resilience and resourcefulness of the characters as they navigate through dangerous and uncertain territory.
Fact 21
The movie’s screenplay was written by T.J. Morrison and Christopher Landon.
Fact 22
Ice Cold in Alex offers a realistic and gripping portrayal of the challenges faced by soldiers and the lengths they go to survive.
Fact 23
The film had a significant influence on subsequent war movies, inspiring filmmakers to explore the human side of war.
Fact 24
Ice Cold in Alex presents a nuanced and understated portrayal of wartime camaraderie.
Fact 25
The movie’s themes of sacrifice and determination resonated with audiences, making it a timeless classic.
Fact 26
Ice Cold in Alex has been praised for its attention to detail and historical accuracy.
Fact 27
The movie’s poignant ending leaves a lasting impact on viewers, highlighting the lasting effects of war on its characters.
Fact 28
Ice Cold in Alex stands as a testament to the strength of the human spirit even in the face of extreme adversity.
Fact 29
The film’s gripping narrative and powerful performances continue to captivate audiences to this day.
Fact 30
Ice Cold in Alex remains a must-watch for fans of war films and those interested in exploring the psychological effects of war.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Ice Cold in Alex is a classic war film that continues to captivate audiences with its thrilling storyline and memorable characters. Set against the backdrop of World War II, the movie takes viewers on a suspenseful journey as a group of individuals navigates their way through the treacherous North African desert. With its strong performances, realistic portrayal of the war, and intense action sequences, Ice Cold in Alex remains a must-watch for any fans of the war genre. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply love a good adventure, this film is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
FAQs
Q: Who directed Ice Cold in Alex?
A: Ice Cold in Alex was directed by J. Lee Thompson.
Q: When was Ice Cold in Alex released?
A: The movie was released in 1958.
Q: Is Ice Cold in Alex based on a true story?
A: Yes, the film is based on a novel of the same name written by Christopher Landon, which was inspired by real-life events.
Q: What is the plot of Ice Cold in Alex?
A: The movie follows a group of British soldiers and a female nurse as they attempt to cross the dangerous Libyan desert during World War II to reach the safety of Alexandria.
Q: Who are the main characters in Ice Cold in Alex?
A: The main characters are Captain Anson, Tom Pugh, Sergeant Major Bourne, and Sister Diana Murdoch.
Q: Is Ice Cold in Alex available to stream?
A: Yes, the movie can be streamed on various platforms such as Amazon Prime and YouTube.
Q: How long is the runtime of Ice Cold in Alex?
A: The movie has a runtime of approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes.
Q: Was Ice Cold in Alex a critical success?
A: Yes, the film received positive reviews for its gripping story, outstanding performances, and realistic portrayal of war.
Q: Has Ice Cold in Alex won any awards?
A: Yes, the movie won the BAFTA Award for Best Film Editing and the National Board of Review Award for Best Foreign Language Film.
Q: Can Ice Cold in Alex be considered a classic?
A: Absolutely, Ice Cold in Alex is widely regarded as a classic war film and continues to be appreciated by audiences and critics alike.
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