Once Before I Die (1966)

Once Before I Die Poster

Stranded behind enemy lines when the Japanese attack the Philippines in late 1941, Lt. Bailey must lead a group of soldiers and their families (including Bailey's curvaceous fiancée Alex) to safety and the streets of Manila. During the perilous trek Alex befriends a virginal young soldier whose only desire is to have sex once before he dies.

Introduction
"Once Before I Die" is a 1966 American war drama directed by John Derek and released by United Artists. The movie features a global cast ensemble, with Ursula Andress, and Richard Jaeckel in prominent roles. Much of the film is set during World War II, focusing on the characters' battles in the middle of the extreme realities of war.

Plot Synopsis
The movie revolves around 5 American soldiers in the Philippines who make their method through the mountains and jungles to caution their pals about an imminent Japanese attack. Accompanying them is Alex, a ravishing Swiss woman portrayed by Ursula Andress. The soldiers need to keep her safety a top priority while guaranteeing she doesn't compromise their mission.

The film starts with the Japanese bombing an American base, killing most soldiers and leaving a small group of survivors. Alex, a lovely cabaret artist and the American Major's inamorata, winds up joining this group. The little band of American soldiers and Alex pass through dangerous terrain, jungles, and mountains, trying to reach their department headquarters while being pursued by the Japanese.

Character Development
Throughout the arduous journey, each character handles their individual difficulties and fears. We witness the soldiers' difficulties, guts, sociability, and hope. Captain John Larsen, played by John Derek, shares a complicated relationship with Alex. Their sensations for each other evolve as they brave their challenging situations fearing that any moment might be their last.

Intrigue and thriller
The principal consider the movie "Once Before I Die", is the continuous risk presented by the hiding Japanese forces threatening the soldiers' journey to department headquarters. The film develops a considerable quantity of suspense as the Americans directly escape various close encounters with the opposition. An inevitable sense of doom dominates throughout, survived by the impending concerns - Will the soldiers make it in time? Will they make it through?

Production and Performance

John Derek's instructions perfectly captures the underlying themes of the movie - the extreme truths of war, fear of the unknown, and the human will to make it through against all odds. The cinematography stunningly portrays the treacherous path that the soldiers take to guarantee their survival and the security of their fellow soldiers.

Ursula Andress provides a notable performance as Alex, efficiently representing the character's danger and vulnerability. The film does an excellent task of using her character to portray the results of war on non-combatants, showing their innocence lost in the face of harsh truths.

Conclusion
"Once Before I Die" is a gripping tale from the battlefield, filled with thriller and human feelings. It checks out the loss of innocence and the will to survive in the face of difficulty, making it a compelling watch. The film's representation of the considerable toll that war takes on both soldiers and civilians is its most affecting feature, highlighting the extremes of human experience in the middle of the dreariness and devastation of war.

Top Cast

  • Ursula Andress (small)
    Ursula Andress
    Alex
  • John Derek (small)
    John Derek
    Bailey
  • Richard Jaeckel (small)
    Richard Jaeckel
    Lt. Custer
  • Ron Ely (small)
    Ron Ely
    Soldier
  • Rod Lauren (small)
    Rod Lauren
    Captain
  • Vance Skarstedt