The Real Footballers of Escape To Victory: A Look Back at the Iconic Film

The Iconic Film: Escape To Victory

Escape To Victory, released in 1981, is a war-set sports story that garnered great attention for its unique premise and star-studded cast of real-life professional footballers. The film, based on Zolt\u00e1n F\u00e1bri's iconic Two Halves In Hell, follows a group of Allied prisoners of war forced to play a rigged exhibition match of football against a German propaganda team while plotting their escape from a POW camp. While the inclusion of Sylvester Stallone in a heroic lead role drew some criticism, Escape To Victory remains a rare and groundbreaking piece of cinema that successfully combines the genres of sports and wartime drama.

People celebrating a goal in Escape to Victory

John Huston, the director, ambitiously included 14 professional footballers in the film, adding authenticity and credibility to the sports action. The film's enduring legacy lies in its ability to bring together two disparate genres and create a timeless story that continues to captivate audiences.

Pele kicks a ball

The Footballing Legends

The inclusion of real-life professional footballers in Escape To Victory added a layer of authenticity and excitement to the film. Let's take a closer look at some of the iconic footballers who brought their talent and charisma to the big screen.

Pele and his teammates

Edson Arantes do Nascimento Pel\u00e9, the global superstar and revered footballer, portrayed the skilled Luis Fernandez in the film. Pel\u00e9's virtuoso performance as part of the Allied team showcased his legendary skills, and his legacy as one of the best players of all time continues to endure. Pel\u00e9's unfortunate passing due to complications with colon cancer in 2022 marked the end of an era, but his impact on the world of football remains unparalleled.

A young Pele

Bobby Moore, the only Englishman to lift the FIFA World Cup trophy, brought his iconic presence to the film as Terry Brady. Moore's real-life exploits mirrored his character's role, making his casting a monumental achievement for the project. Moore's legacy as a footballing legend lives on, and his contributions to the sport continue to inspire future generations.

Bobby Moore raising a trophy

Osvaldo Ardilles, known for his cult status in English football, portrayed Carlos Rey in the film. Ardilles' midfield performance alongside Pel\u00e9 was critical to the Allied team's success, and his successful coaching career further solidified his impact on the sport. Today, Ardilles runs his own football school in the UK, leaving a lasting legacy in the footballing world.

Soccer player Ossie Ardilles in front of a net

Paul Van Himst, an Anderlecht legend, portrayed Michel Fileu in the film. His portrayal showcased his rare attacking talents and highlighted his remarkable career as a footballer. Van Himst's contributions to the Anderlecht team and his impact on the sport continue to be remembered and celebrated.

Paul Van Himst in Escape to Victory

Mike Summerbee, a revered name in the North-East of England, played the role of Sid Harmer in the film. Summerbee's fiery performance as the right-sided winger added excitement to the Allied starting lineup, reflecting his real-life contributions to the successful Manchester City side. Summerbee's current role as the Club Ambassador for Manchester City further solidifies his enduring legacy in the world of football.

Mike Summerbee in Escape to Victory

Remembering the Legends

The real footballers of Escape To Victory left an indelible mark on the world of cinema and sports. Their contributions to the film brought authenticity, excitement, and a sense of realism to the war-set sports story. Despite the passage of time, the legacy of these footballing legends continues to endure, inspiring future generations and captivating audiences with their remarkable performances on and off the field.

Werner Roth with a trophy in Escape to Victory

As we remember the iconic film and the footballers who made it a timeless classic, their impact on the world of football and cinema remains unparalleled. From the legendary Pel\u00e9 to the revered Bobby Moore, each footballer brought their unique talents and charisma to the big screen, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of fans and enthusiasts around the world.

Kevin O'Callaghan in a black and white photo on the soccer field