The Last Escape (1970)

The Last Escape (1970)

„The Last Escape“ is a 1970 American-West German international co-production action war film directed by Walter Grauman.

Alternative Title: „O.S.S.“

During the final days of the Second World War, Captain Lee Mitchell, an American OSS officer, and a brave group of British commandos dressed in German uniforms race against time toward a German rocket base in an attempt to locate and kidnap the renowned German rocket scientist Dr. Von Heinken who is being held against his will, before the scientist can fall into the hands of the Russians. British command knows that the Russians would use von Heineken’s expertise to develop super weapons for use in the forthcoming Cold War period. Seems von Heineken can provide crucial information to the Germans to help them further develop their V-class rockets, which have been used to devastating effect on England.

Along the way the Allied commando team are chased by SS and forces who were also after him, and only Mitchell survives the German ambush. Undeterred, he resumes his mission, intent on smuggling the German rocket expert out of Berlin.

Joining a British commando unit, Mitchell wrests control from inexperienced Lieut. Donald Wilcox.

While smuggling the scientist from a factory, he reluctantly accedes to Von Heinken’s request that assistants and refugees accompany him. Mitchell remains suspicious of Karen Gerhardt, mistress of SS Major Hessel. He later learns, however, that her liaison was motivated by the desire to protect her young son.

The downing of an Allied rescue flight convinces Mitchell that an informant is present. Von Heinken’s assistant, Blucher, is subsequently unmasked and slain.

Mistaking a truck containing the refugees for a German transport, a Russian tank patrol begins pursuit. Diverting the Russians, Wilcox drives his jeep over a cliff and is killed. As American forces led by Mitchell approach, rejoicing refugees stream from the truck. Realizing that these are not German troops, the Russians hold their fire. They later return the lieutenant’s body to Mitchell as tribute to a fallen hero.

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