World War I: German ace pilot Captain von Rauffenstein shoots down French pilot Captain de Boeldieu and his mechanic, leading to their capture and imprisonment in a POW camp. The officers befriend a wealthy banker and plan an escape, but their plans are foiled when they're transferred to a heavily guarded fortress prison overseen by von Rauffenstein. Despite their differences, the two captains develop a respect and appreciation for each other, raising questions about whether their relationship will hinder their quest for freedom.
The Grand Illusion
Two French soldiers, captured and imprisoned in a German POW camp, orchestrate multiple escape attempts before being transferred to a seemingly impenetrable fortress.