Oh dear. Slapped wrists to all the blurb-writers who mention this as being funny; it's patently not. Instead it's a sugar rush of observations noted down while a film was playing in the background – but with this level of frenetic detail it must have taken multiple viewings, either that or the pause button was pressed every ten seconds. The panoply of detail and forensic "analysis" comes at you in page-long sentences, with far too many clauses, and far too little editing, meaning I tired of the 'style' really quickly. A shame, as I wanted something esoteric along the lines of the 33-and-a-third books about music records – just not this esoteric.

BROADSWORD CALLING DANNY BOY

BY

Geoff Dyer

Fans of WW11 films and especially ‘Where Eagles Dare’ will be familiar with the title of this book, Richard Burton’s code when contacting base in the film.
This extremely funny book analyses the film scene by scene and exposes many of the incongruous slip ups. The action is centred on a remote Schloss high up in the Austrian mountains.
I also loved that film and do remember passing the mountain while on holiday in Austria and the guide telling us that Elizabeth Taylor supplied Burton with liquid refreshment on a daily basis. The writer notes that Burton got the dialogue with little actual body movement called for, while Clint Eastwood did the acting which did not amount to much more than a twitch or a wry twist of the face, as in every film in which he has starred!
To get the best out of the book I would suggest you read it before or while watching the film as there are many crazy things that most filmgoers would not have noticed.
There are items used in the film that were not produced until the late 40s. Burton and Eastwood carried two small backpacks (in the words of the writer - bottomless packs) on the mission. Strangely they contained an endless supply of explosive devices and the wherewithal to tie to buildings and trees. And the suitcase full of ammo? Eastwood lifted it as if it floated up filled with helium!
Two men travelling up and down on the roof of the cable car unobserved by lookouts! It was snowing! Did no one see them or even notice footprints?
Some great comments regarding all the British Actors who have played Nazis, and suggestions they may have relished the power and of course the dressing up. Geoff Dyer lists the modes of transport used in such escape films. Bicycles, motorbikes, trains, planes, helicopters, even buses and of course military vehicles. Think about it.
The writer has sharp eyes and an ironic sense of humour and the ridiculous. I rather regret that he has slightly spoiled the enjoyment of a film I did enjoy and would watch again.
A fun and revealing read that I did enjoy written by someone with a gimlet eye.

I absolutely love this film and had no hesitation in downloading the book about it. However I did not find it funny, really in any way, it was, as it says, a scene by scene analysis of the film. Interesting and I enjoyed the book, but I did feel that the description of it was rather more enthusiastic than I was.
The film is great and it is wonderful that it is now almost 50 years old, however this book will not be around in 50 years for people to read the analysis.

I felt that it was a bit of a damp squib, which was a great shame. I was very excited to see that it was on Netgalley.

Witty and alternative synopsis of a classic film that makes you question it's authenticity in a fun way.

As a massive Film Buff, Where Eagles Dare has always been a guilty pleasure of mine. It’s not classic cinema, and the plot is a bit hokey, but it is grossly entertaining and just right for a wet Sunday afternoon.
Geoff Dyer, I think, feels the same as me about the film.
The problem with this book though, is that it takes us through, scene by scene, of the entire film. Now, for those readers, like Mr Dyer and I, who have seen this film countless times, WE KNOW THE STORY! We know exactly what happens. Yes, there are some funny quips about Burton only in it for the money, and Eastwood practising his squinting and glances that he will forever be known for in future films.
There were many moments that I found myself giggling through the book, but I did find the oft-repeated references to Brexit annoying.
This book is only 128 pages. Too short by far. Much more should have been included in the notes at the end.
I was a big fan of Geoff Dyer’s book Zona, about the Tarkovsky film, Stalker, which was longer and more informative. In my opinion anyway.
This is not a bad book. It is a gentle read for a couple of hours, but in this reviewers opinion it could have been so so much better.

Whilst this is short and entertaining, it should be required reading for anyone that is a fan of the film. The book outlines a variety of small continuity errors or other peculiarities, alongside possible motivations behind the main protagonists actions .. to hilarious effect. As noted, various acting styles were here first practiced to such great effect (Clint looks into the distance meaningfully, Burton wonders how he lucked out getting paid to do this lark) that then became familiar tropes in later films by the actors.
Great fun and hugely recommended for fans of the film.

I loved being able to own a film previously enjoyed at the movies on a DVD disc and play it whenever I want. This pleasure multiplied numerous times when it included cut scenes, alternative endings or most desired director's commentaries.
However, if I am honest my subsequent re-watching of these films does not justify the expense other than to have it to hand to show to someone who has never heard of the movie let alone seen it.
With the multiple channels and a desire to retreat into a book I don't watch much T.V. However, there are two war movies that I have watched countless times, and despite the time or the urge of sleep I will watch if I catch them ever on the box.
Kelly's Heroes is one and the other is Where Eagles Dare. Interestingly, Clint Eastwood features in both these classics.
So, when I saw a book devoted to the movie Where Eagles Dare along the lines of a commentary scene by scene I was in literary heaven. I had to read it as soon as possible and it is a pleasure to review it after enjoying it so much.
The author brings his youthful zeal for books and movies from his early teens into words that make the film live and project on my mind. Obviously, someone unfamiliar with the film could not appreciate the nuances of the writing or the descriptions used but I suggest they would also enjoy the rich humour. It is a special kind of wit that doesn't always resonate with an audience but in terms of zany, nonsense and logic taken to the nth degree it had me in suppressed laughter and wide grins.
If like me you are of an age to have shared a similar upbringing as the author, then many of the references to other actors and films of this time will be old favourites and in your knowledge. You will enjoy the book on a higher plane of appreciation.
If like me you have seen Where Eagles Dare countless times you will freak out and want to re-read this wonderful book again and find that DVD somewhere and try to remember how to press play.
This is a great idea for a book. Well written and filled with comedy asides and clever facts. It takes the film and makes fun of outrageous plotting and sends Burton up a great deal. The author is well read and although this project flows from his own love of the film he brings many attributed quotes from the stars or the world of film and literature to make his point.
The entire process is to lift the movie into real cult status. I don't mean to drag us all down to WW2 re-enactment conferences or start quoting from the film - "Sit Down!"
No, it simply enhances the whole experience of viewing the film. Agreeing with how did they carry all that equipment? Why didn't the German's spot the dangling legs or rope at the window? To why delay their escape to the point of failure by taking the prisoners with them.
This isn't a behind the scenes insight into how the film was made; shooting schedules or stars that turned the roles down. No, it is a knowledgeable account; not 'bigging himself up' but like a friend invited round who brings so much more to the screening than booze and popcorn. The author brings a comedic timing, shares your own comments and laughs with you along the way but ultimately leaves as happy as you since together your viewing experience has been magnified to a lasting pleasure and shared joy.