On October 15th, 2023, Michael Caine announced his retirement at the age of 90, finally bringing an illustrious career that lasted for the better half of a century to a dignified close. Few British stars have endured quite like Caine have; the majority of the current crop of Golden Oldies either became famous later in life like Ian McKellen or experienced a clear career peak many years ago a la Malcolm McDowell. Caine, on the other hand, has maintained a near unprecedented level of status, with a film hit in almost every decade from The Italian Job to The Dark Knight Rises, deepening his persona in fascinating directions at every turn.

It seems almost too appropriate that Caine’s final film The Great Escaper should be a movie focused on taking a long journey to say goodbye. Following a World War II veteran as he breaks out of a care home in order to attend the remembrance ceremony for the 70th anniversary of D-Day, this is a film based on a true story that couldn’t be better as a send-off not only for Caine, but for British icon

Glenda Jackson who sadly passed away after filming was completed.

The Great Escaper is British cinematic comfort food at its finest, bringing feelings of sincerity and nuance made all the more poignant for the loss of its two leads from the industry. It’s the end of an era, but what a time we had getting here.