Kelly's Heroes

Kelly's Heroes

Year: 1970

Runtime: 144 min

Language: English

Director: Brian G. Hutton

AdventureComedyWar

During World War II, a team of American soldiers discovers a stash of gold bullion behind enemy lines in France. Led by Sergeant Kelly (Clint Eastwood), they devise a risky plan to steal the treasure. Facing relentless German patrols and the interference of a suspicious intelligence officer, the soldiers must rely on each other and forge an uneasy truce with a female French Resistance fighter to succeed. Their daring heist blends action, humor, and a touch of romance against the backdrop of wartime chaos.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Kelly's Heroes (1970)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Kelly's Heroes (1970). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

September 1944

Set in September 1944, the film takes place towards the end of World War II, a period marked by intense military engagements and shifting powers in Europe. During this time, Allied forces were increasingly pushing back against German positions, resulting in chaotic yet strategic military operations aimed at securing victories and unearthing treasures hidden by the enemy.

Location

Nancy, France, Clermont

The movie is set against the backdrop of Nancy and Clermont, two significant locations in France during World War II. Nancy is known for its rich architectural heritage and pivotal role during the war. Clermont, situated deeper behind enemy lines, serves as the key location where the treasure is hidden, embodying the film's central conflict.

🇫🇷 France 🏙️ City ⛰️ Surroundings

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:36

Main Characters – Kelly's Heroes (1970)

Meet the key characters of Kelly's Heroes (1970), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Private Kelly

Once a distinguished lieutenant, Private Kelly's transition to private status after a failure drives his quest for redemption. Clever and resourceful, he navigates the complexities of war with a mix of cunning and bravery, uniting a diverse group for the heist of a lifetime.

🕵️‍♂️ Strategist 🌟 Leader 🏅 Redeemed

Supply Sergeant 'Crapgame'

Crapgame is the opportunistic supply sergeant whose resourcefulness proves invaluable during the mission. With a keen eye for essential gear, he adds a level of humor and unpredictability to the plans, showcasing the blend of practicality and chaos in wartime.

💼 Resourceful 😂 Comedic 🎖️ Support

'Oddball' (Tank Commander)

The laid-back tank commander, Oddball, embodies a relaxed attitude amidst warfare chaos. His unconventional approach and inventive tactics make him a formidable ally, ultimately turning the tide of the battle through camaraderie and creativity.

🚜 Tank Commander 😎 Laid-back 🎨 Creative

Master Sergeant 'Big Joe'

Big Joe’s character displays leadership and commitment to his crew. Initially skeptical, he evolves into a crucial advocate for the mission, demonstrating bravery and strategic thinking that amplifies the team's resolve.

💪 Strong-willed 🔄 Evolving 🎖️ Veteran

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:36

Major Themes – Kelly's Heroes (1970)

Explore the central themes of Kelly's Heroes (1970), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💰 Greed

The pursuit of wealth drives the characters' actions, highlighting how greed can fuel reckless decisions and audacious plans. The discovery of gold becomes a central motivator, leading characters to navigate dangers for a share of the fortune, ultimately blurring the lines between enemies and allies.

🤝 Unlikely Alliances

The film showcases how dire circumstances can lead to unexpected collaborations. As American soldiers team up with German tank crews, it emphasizes themes of camaraderie and the absurdity of war, where former enemies unite for mutual gain in a comically chaotic heist.

🎖️ Redemption

Private Kelly’s journey is one of redemption, as he seeks to restore his honor following a failed offensive. His determination to lead a successful mission imbues the narrative with a sense of personal growth and the quest for purpose amidst the chaos of war.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:36

Unlock the Full Story of Kelly's Heroes

Don't stop at just watching — explore Kelly's Heroes in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Kelly's Heroes is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Kelly's Heroes Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Kelly's Heroes, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Kelly's Heroes Summary

Kelly's Heroes Timeline

Track the full timeline of Kelly's Heroes with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Kelly's Heroes Timeline

More About Kelly's Heroes

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Kelly's Heroes: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Kelly's Heroes

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