The film's journey to the screen took eight years as Sturges struggled to find studio backing until United Artists stepped in following the success of his previous hit, The Magnificent Seven Filming Locations: Shot primarily on location in Bavaria, Germany , specifically at the Bavaria Film Studios and the surrounding Perlacher Forest The production featured an extraordinary lineup, including James Garner Richard Attenborough Charles Bronson Donald Pleasence Authenticity:

As the escape plan nears completion, the prisoners prepare to make their break. On the night of the escape, 76 prisoners make a run for freedom, but the Germans quickly discover the escape and begin to hunt down the fugitives.