The Cockleshell Heroes is a 1955 British war film directed by José Ferrer and starring José Ferrer, Trevor Howard, Dora Bryan, and Victor Maddern. It is based on true events that occurred during World War II.
The movie tells the story of a small, specially trained team of British commandos who are tasked with carrying out a daring raid on German ships that are blocking the access to the French port of Bordeaux. Led by Major Stringer (Trevor Howard), the team of eight men travel by kayak from England across the English Channel and up the Gironde estuary to the port of Bordeaux.
Their objective is to attach limpet mines to the hulls of the German ships, which are loaded with supplies that are critical to the German war effort. But the journey is fraught with danger, as the commandos must navigate treacherous waters, evade patrols, and survive harsh weather conditions.
Once they arrive at Bordeaux, the commandos must move quickly to accomplish their mission before the Germans discover them. The film is a tense and exciting portrayal of this remarkable feat of bravery that helped turn the tide of the war.
The Cockleshell Heroes was lauded for its realistic portrayal of the challenges faced by the commandos and the grit and determination they displayed in achieving their objective. The movie also serves as a tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of all those who fought in World War II.
