Tobruk (1967)
A gripping World War II commando mission across the North African desert, starring Rock Hudson and George Peppard under Arthur Hiller's direction.
Tobruk - Movie Information
- Original Title: Tobruk
- Release Year: 1967
- Directed by: Arthur Hiller
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama, History, War
- Runtime: 1h 47m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: German, Italian, English, Arabic
- Release Date (Theatrical): February 7, 1967 (United States), January 1, 1968 (Brazil - e 12)
- Alternative Titles: Tobrouk, commando pour l'enfer (FR), Die Kanonen von Tobruk (DE)
- Production Companies: The Corman Company, Universal Pictures, Gibraltar Productions
- Production Countries: United States of America
Tobruk - Plot
In September 1942, the German Afrika Korps under Rommel have successfully pushed the Allies back into Egypt. A counter-attack is planned, for which the fuel dumps at Tobruk are a critical impediment. In order to aid the attack, a group of British commandos and German Jews make their way undercover through 800 miles of desert, to destroy the fuel dumps starving the Germans of fuel.
Tobruk - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see the desert mission unfold:
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Tobruk - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Arthur Hiller
Main Cast
- Rock Hudson
- George Peppard
- Nigel Green
- Guy Stockwell
- Jack Watson
- Norman Rossington
- Percy Herbert
- Liam Redmond
- Heidy Hunt
- Leo Gordon
Writers
- Leo Gordon
Producers
- Gene Corman
Tobruk - FAQs
What is Tobruk (1967) about?
Tobruk follows a desperate Allied mission in September 1942. A mixed unit of British commandos and German-Jewish soldiers must cross 800 miles of North African desert undercover to blow up Rommel's fuel dumps near Tobruk — supplies keeping the Afrika Korps rolling. It's a tense, gritty wartime adventure built on distrust and survival.
Is Tobruk based on a true story?
Tobruk draws loose inspiration from Operation Agreement, a real Allied raid on Tobruk in September 1942. The actual operation was a costly failure, but the film takes creative liberties to craft a more dramatic commando narrative. The desert setting, Rommel's Afrika Korps, and the strategic importance of fuel supplies are all historically grounded.
Who are the main actors in Tobruk?
Rock Hudson leads the cast as Major Donald Craig, with George Peppard playing the morally complex Captain Kurt Bergman. Nigel Green brings authority as Colonel John Harker, while Guy Stockwell, Jack Watson, and Leo Gordon round out a rugged ensemble that gives the film its gritty, lived-in feel.
Where can you stream or watch Tobruk (1967)?
Streaming availability for Tobruk varies by region and changes over time. Your best bet is to check JustWatch, which tracks current rental, purchase, and streaming options across all major platforms in your country, so you always get the most up-to-date viewing choices.
Why do German-Jewish soldiers fight alongside British commandos?
The German-Jewish soldiers in Tobruk are refugees who fled Nazi persecution and joined the British Army specifically to fight back against the regime that destroyed their lives. Their inclusion creates the film's central dramatic tension — they can pass as German soldiers behind enemy lines, but trust between the two groups is fragile and hard-won.
Who directed Tobruk and what else did he make?
Arthur Hiller directed Tobruk, one of his earlier Hollywood features. He later became best known for the romantic drama Love Story (1970) and the comedy The In-Laws (1979). Tobruk showcases his ability to handle large-scale action sequences alongside character-driven drama in a demanding desert environment.
Is Tobruk worth watching for war film fans?
Absolutely. Tobruk delivers a solid blend of commando action and moral complexity that holds up well for fans of classic 1960s war cinema. The dynamic between Rock Hudson and George Peppard drives genuine tension, and the North African desert setting — shot on location — gives the film a sweeping, authentic atmosphere.
What are some movies similar to Tobruk?
If you enjoyed Tobruk, you'll likely appreciate Battle of the Bulge (1965), Raid on Rommel (1971), and A Bridge Too Far (1977) for their large-scale WWII action. For more intimate wartime drama, Decision Before Dawn (1951) and Is Paris Burning? (1966) explore similar themes of identity, loyalty, and survival behind enemy lines.
More About Tobruk
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