Watch I Was Monty's Double

I Was Monty's Double is a 1958 British biographical movie which tells the story of a brilliant and audacious deception during the Second World War. The movie is directed by John Guillermin and stars M.E. Clifton James, John Mills, and Cecil Parker in lead roles. The story revolves around the character of M.E. Clifton James, a British soldier who bears an uncanny resemblance to the famous General Montgomery, the top British commander during the war. General Montgomery was crucial to the Allied victory, and his name and reputation were well known around the world. However, his high profile status also made him a prime target for Nazi assassins.

To foil an assassination attempt by the Nazis, the British intelligence services hatched a plan to use Clifton James as a decoy to confuse and mislead the enemy. This is where the real story begins. James, a shy and modest army staff sergeant, is suddenly thrust into the limelight and asked to play the role of Montgomery. The mission is a success, but the experience is a tough one for James, who must learn to act, dress and speak as a top British commander while facing unexpected scrutiny from the public.

The movie manages to balance tense wartime drama with moments of light-heartedness, capturing the spirit of the era perfectly. It explores the psychological toll of war on the ordinary soldiers who were forced to put themselves in dangerous situations for a greater cause. The film's strongest quality is its stellar performances. M.E. Clifton James, in particular, is sensational as both himself and Montgomery, capturing the nuances of each character perfectly.

John Mills plays the head of the British intelligence agency, and his performance brings a level of gravitas to the movie. Cecil Parker plays James's commanding officer, whose frustration and embarrassment with James's antics provide plenty of comedic moments. The supporting cast is equally impressive, with notable performances from Michael Hordern, Leslie Phillips, and Patrick Allen.

One of the movie's most outstanding achievements is its recreation of the wartime setting. The production design team perfectly captures the atmosphere of London during the war, from the drab interiors of military bases to the dimly lit streets of the city.

Overall, I Was Monty's Double is a fascinating and engaging movie which explores a lesser-known aspect of the Second World War. The movie manages to be both informative and entertaining, and it is a testament to the bravery of ordinary soldiers caught up in the middle of a global conflict.

The film was not only a commercial success but also earned critical acclaim, winning the British Academy Film Award for Best Screenplay in 1959. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in war movies, British history or the art of deception.