A Bridge Too Far

- Can I look out? - No, they might shoot us.

The Germans have collapsed.

Then the war is over?

Soon.

But what is that noise?

Panic.

You may begin.

I think I speak for all of us when I say how pleased we are, Field Marshal Von Rundstedt...

...that you have been reappointed commander of our forces in the West.

Speeches are for victory celebrations. Let's get to the point.

Air power?

Air power, Field Marshal?

Briefly, please.

- Air power is minimal. - Ammunition?

Also minimal.

Tanks, troops, and replacements?

- Minimal. - Morale?

Nonexistent.

What do you think we should do?

End the war, you fools.

- Why are you all laughing? - Excuse us.

We have such confidence in you.

Everyone knows you never lost a battle.

I'm still young, give me time.

The first thing we must do is to turn this rabble into something like an army.

Anything at all on when they plan to invade Holland?

They seem to have paused in Belgium. Most likely supply problems.

Otherwise we can't imagine why.

I think it's because we're retreating faster than they can advance.

- How many vehicles in the past hour? - Fifty-four.

The same hour yesterday?

Ninety-eight.

Last week your mother and I could have captured Holland alone.

The panic stopped already.

It isn't over yet, and those idiots don't realize it.

- War takes time. - Listen to the expert.

I was nine when they got here.

Next month I'll be 14. I ought to know something.

Father, the Allies will come.

But when?

Which direction will they attack, and who will command?

Montgomery or Patton?

- Model, what do you think? - Patton.

He is their best.

Patton will lead the assault.

I would prefer Montgomery but even Eisenhower isn't that stupid.

Bittrich's Panzer troops need some rest if they're to stop Patton.

- Naturally. - We should pull them back somewhere safe.

Safe, quiet, out of the way. But where?

Arnhem?

Arnhem.

Go back.

- Go back. - But, why?

Do as I say.

But my friend lives down the road.

It's my birthday and she has a present for me.

Please let me through.

All right, be quick.

Are your sure?

I'm sure, Father. Believe me.

Model?

A field marshal in Arnhem? Why?

The British will have an explanation.

Did you pass on the message about the tanks?

Of course. But the Model is more important.

You're a good boy and a wonderful spy.

Now go help your mother with supper.

General Bittrich!

I'm in here, Matthias.

Fantastic.

Just once to have such power in my hands.

Excuse me, Field Marshall, but British paratroopers have landed three kilometers from here.

Why should they do that?

There is nothing important here.

Me! I am important.

They must all be coming just to capture me.

- Call my chauffeur and car. - Yes, sir.