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.

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Timeline – Kelly's Heroes (1970)

Trace every key event in Kelly's Heroes (1970) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Storm Clouds Over Nancy

As September approaches, storm clouds loom ominously over Nancy, France, creating a tense atmosphere. The 35th Infantry Division units draw nearer to their objective, setting the stage for a climactic confrontation.

September Nancy, France
2

Initial Combat Challenges

The mechanized reconnaissance platoon struggles to hold their ground against overwhelming odds. Confusion reigns as they endure friendly fire from their own mortar barrage, complicating their efforts to maintain their position.

3

Private Kelly's Redemption

Private Kelly, a once-regarded lieutenant, sees an opportunity for redemption amidst the chaos. He captures Colonel Dankhopf of Wehrmacht Intelligence, uncovering crucial information about 14,000 gold bars hidden in Clermont.

Clermont
4

The Scheme for Gold

Nervously invigorated by the discovery, Kelly devises a bold plan to seize the immense treasure. He recruits Supply Sergeant 'Crapgame' to gather weapons and gear necessary for this high-stakes operation.

5

Oddball's Tanks Join In

The laid-back tank commander 'Oddball' overhears Kelly's plan and offers three unassigned M4 Sherman tanks to aid in the operation. This unexpected addition boosts the morale and capabilities of Kelly's platoon significantly.

6

The Commander's Distraction

With Captain Maitland distracted by family affairs, the platoon grows increasingly enthusiastic about the heist. Kelly convinces Master Sergeant 'Big Joe' to join, solidifying the team's determination to execute the plan.

7

The March to Clermont Begins

Kelly deploys his infantry and Oddball’s tanks in separate formations, carefully planning a rendezvous near Clermont. Their journey becomes a tactical maneuver to overcome German defenses as they approach their objective.

Clermont
8

Bridge Destroyed

Their advance is abruptly halted when an Allied fighter-bomber strike devastates the crucial bridge needed for their progression. Despite this setback, Oddball improvises, coordinating efforts to establish a new crossing with engineering support.

9

Tragedy Strikes

Their situation grows dire when a friendly fire incident leads to the loss of their vehicles. Forced to continue on foot, they encounter a minefield where Private Grace tragically loses his life to a hidden explosive.

10

More Losses Before Engaging

As the surviving members of Kelly’s unit face a German patrol, they are caught off-guard. PFC Mitchell and Corporal Job meet their own demise, further thinning the ranks just as they plan to engage the enemy.

11

Reinforcements Arrive

Two nights later, Oddball reunites with Kelly, bringing a ragtag band of reinforcements. They are now more determined than ever to complete their mission despite the odds stacked against them.

12

Clashes at Clermont

Upon arriving in Clermont, Kelly’s group faces three formidable Tiger I tanks from the 1st SS Panzer Division. A fierce battle ensues where the Americans manage to outmatch the German infantry and destroy two of the Tigers.

Clermont
13

The Deal An Arrangement

Faced with the last surviving Tiger tank, Crapgame conjures a plan to broker a deal. He suggests offering equal shares of the gold in exchange for the Germans' assistance to breach the bank vault.

14

A Joint Effort

Unexpectedly, the German tank crew agrees to Kelly's proposal, and together they blast through the vault doors. In a twist of fate, both sides walk away with a significant share of the treasure, valued around $875,000 each.

15

Celebration and Misunderstanding

As the residents of Clermont celebrate their newfound liberty, they mistakenly honor General Colt, believing he is General de Gaulle. This misunderstanding creates further complications as the American unit narrowly escapes recognition and pursuit.

Clermont

Last Updated: November 21, 2024 at 10:50

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Kelly's Heroes Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Kelly's Heroes

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