I Was Monty’s Double

During World War II, the British government initiates a misinformation campaign to mislead the Germans about the location of the Normandy landings. The plan is entrusted to two intelligence officers, Colonel Logan and Major Harvey. They struggle at first to devise a viable concept, but the idea begins to crystallize after a crucial moment of inspiration.

One night in a London theatre, Harvey witnesses M. E. Clifton James performing a convincing impersonation of General Bernard Montgomery. He realizes the potential of using a real-sounding impersonator to fool the enemy. The seed of the deception is planted through this encounter.

James is called to London supposedly to test for an army film and ends up being recruited to impersonate Montgomery. He expresses doubt about his ability but agrees to try. The plan is to have him tour North Africa to spread the ruse.

Disguised as a corporal, James spends time at Montgomery's headquarters to copy the general's mannerisms and speech. He undergoes focused training to convincingly imitate Montgomery under real conditions. The preparation is supervised by the officers orchestrating the deception.

After an interview with the actual Montgomery, James is dispatched to North Africa to impersonate him publicly. Harvey accompanies him, posing as Montgomery's brigadier and aide-de-camp to strengthen the illusion. The mission moves from theory to field operation.

James and Harvey arrive in Gibraltar, where the governor is astonished by the uncanny likeness. To cement the deception, they invite German agent Karl Nielson to dinner so he can learn and spread the misinformation. The deceptive effort gains a foothold in a critical hub.

Under the guise of Montgomery, James visits troops across North Africa, delivering appearances and updates. Harvey plays the role of brigadier and aide-de-camp to reinforce the act. The aim is to convince German forces that Montgomery is directing operations away from Normandy.

As the invasion approaches, the operation succeeds in sowing doubt among German planners. The Germans are led to believe Montgomery is in the area responsible for southern defense, keeping significant forces away from Normandy. The deception is more extensive than Harvey initially realizes.

With the deception nearing its peak, James hides in a heavily guarded villa on the coast to avoid exposure. The fortified location provides a secure perch while the ruse continues to influence German decisions. The stakes remain high as the landings draw closer.

A German team is transported by submarine with orders to abduct Montgomery. They kill his guards and are prepared to extract him along with James. Harvey learns of the plot and intervenes, foiling the kidnapping at the last moment.

The kidnapping attempt is thwarted, and James and Harvey slip away to return quietly to London. The deception remains in place, having already influenced German decision-making. Their successful disappearance underscores the operation's safety and secrecy.

The deception yields its intended effect by confusing German expectations about Montgomery's whereabouts and strength. The operation contributes to keeping German forces away from the Normandy invasion zone. James and Harvey's efforts culminate in a strategic advantage for the upcoming landings.