Escape

The definitive story of cult classic movie Escape to Victory, bringing you the inside track through new interviews with the football legends, cast and crew.

From John Smith, author of the widely acclaimed Booked!, Second Yellow and Final Third!

Blessed with the winning combination of Pelé, Michael Caine and Sylvester Stallone, this much-loved classic is the gold standard of football films. This compelling book:

• Explores the familiar tale we know from the screen, and a multitude of stories we haven’t heard from off screen • Offers fresh insight from stars of the film and football legends – including Ossie Ardiles, Mike Summerbee, John Wark, Hallvar Thoresen, Paul van Himst, Russell Osman, Soren Lindsted and Werner Roth – as well as first-hand accounts from crew, with tales from on and off set • Traces the film’s development from the germ of an idea, to the all-important casting and filming in Hungary, to achieving its cult status • Gives a personal take on one of the author’s favourite films, with new observations and insights

Packed with stories and revelations, from Ipswich Town to Tinseltown, Escape is a must-read for film buffs and football fans, along with anyone who enjoys sharing anecdotes and trivia with friends. Everything you ever wanted to know about this timeless classic is here!

© 2025 Pitch Publishing (Ebook): 9781836802075

Release date

Ebook: October 20, 2025