The Passage 1979
"An ice-swept escape route in front of them. A cold-blooded killer behind them. The only way out is up."
Set against the brutal winter backdrop of World War II's Pyrenees, J. Lee Thompson's *The Passage* (1979) follows a desperate journey where survival hangs by a thread.
Director: J. Lee Thompson
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Passage (1979) about?
In the depths of WWII, a Basque shepherd must lead a scientist and his family across the treacherous Pyrenees to escape Nazi forces. Pursued by a ruthless German officer, their only hope lies in the unforgiving mountain path ahead.
Who directed The Passage?
J. Lee Thompson directed *The Passage*, known for his gripping storytelling in high-stakes action and war films like *The Guns of Navarone*.
Who stars in The Passage?
The film features powerhouse performances from Anthony Quinn, James Mason, Malcolm McDowell, Patricia Neal, and Kay Lenz in pivotal roles.
Is The Passage (1979) worth watching?
With its intense survival narrative and strong cast, *The Passage* offers a tense wartime thriller experience. While contemporary reviews are sparse, its themes of resilience and pursuit make it a solid choice for fans of classic adventure films.
How long is The Passage?
The runtime for *The Passage* is 99 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About The Passage (1979) — A WWII Thriller of Survival and Sacrifice in the Pyrenees
Set against the brutal winter backdrop of World War II's Pyrenees, J. Lee Thompson's *The Passage* (1979) follows a desperate journey where survival hangs by a thread. A Basque shepherd is enlisted by the underground to guide a scientist and his family through treacherous mountain terrain, pursued relentlessly by a merciless German officer. With the icy wilderness as both ally and enemy, the film weaves a gripping tale of courage and betrayal, where every step could mean life or death. Thompson's direction infuses the narrative with a tense, atmospheric edge, while the cast delivers performances as unforgiving as the landscape itself.
Anthony Quinn's portrayal of the hardened shepherd anchors the story, flanked by James Mason's stoic scientist and Malcolm McDowell's chilling antagonist. Blending war, action, and thriller elements, *The Passage* captures the raw tension of escape under the shadow of war, making it a compelling exploration of human resilience in the face of evil.