The Secret War of Harry Frigg 1968
"It's not who you con. It's how you do it."
In Jack Smight's clever 1968 war comedy *The Secret War of Harry Frigg*, a brash American private finds himself thrust into an unlikely role—Major General—during a chaotic World War II scenario.
Director: Jack Smight
Cast
Paul Newman
Pvt. Harry Frigg
Sylva Koscina
Countess Francesca De Montefiore
Andrew Duggan
Gen. Newton Armstrong
Tom Bosley
Gen. Roscoe Pennypacker
John Williams
Gen. Francis Mayhew
Charles Gray
Gen. Adrian Cox-Roberts
Vito Scotti
Col. Enrico Ferrucci
Jacques Roux
Gen. Andre Rochambeau
Werner Peters
Maj. von Steignitz
James Gregory
Gen. Homer Prentiss
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Secret War of Harry Frigg (1968) about?
The film follows Harry Frigg, a resourceful private in WWII who's promoted to Major General to rescue five captured Allied generals. His mission grows complicated when he falls for a Countess while navigating enemy lines, turning a tactical mission into a blend of wartime adventure and romantic comedy.
Who directed The Secret War of Harry Frigg?
The movie was directed by Jack Smight, a filmmaker known for his versatility across genres, including war films and dramas.
Who stars in The Secret War of Harry Frigg?
The lead role is played by Paul Newman, with Sylva Koscina, Andrew Duggan, and Tom Bosley rounding out the main cast.
Is The Secret War of Harry Frigg (1968) worth watching?
With its sharp humor and Newman's magnetic performance, this war comedy offers a refreshing break from the usual wartime drama. Fans of classic comedies or Paul Newman's films will likely find it engaging, even if it's not one of his most iconic roles.
How long is The Secret War of Harry Frigg?
The runtime is 110 minutes.
About The Secret War of Harry Frigg (1968) — War Comedy with Paul Newman's Clever Escape Plot
In Jack Smight's clever 1968 war comedy *The Secret War of Harry Frigg*, a brash American private finds himself thrust into an unlikely role—Major General—during a chaotic World War II scenario. Tasked with orchestrating the escape of five Allied generals captured in Italy, Harry Frigg (Paul Newman) uses his knack for mischief to outwit the enemy. But when he crosses paths with a captivating Countess (Sylva Koscina), his mission takes an unexpected turn, blending high-stakes wartime satire with delightful romantic tension. The film brims with sharp humor, clever schemes, and the kind of irreverent charm that makes even the most absurd premise feel grounded in wit and heart.
This underrated gem stands out for its lighthearted take on military bureaucracy, where rank and ego clash just as fiercely as the opposing forces. With a runtime that breezes by, *The Secret War of Harry Frigg* delivers a perfect mix of wartime adventure and screwball comedy, proving that sometimes the best strategy isn't the most disciplined one. Newman's charismatic performance anchors the chaos, making this a must-watch for fans of classic films that balance action with humor.
