Escape to Athena (1979)

In the throes of World War II, the relentless German war machine surges over Greece, leaving behind a shadow of dominance. Yet, within this shadow flickers a spark of rebellion, harbored in the unlikely confines of Stalag VII-Z, a prison camp nestled on the site of an ancient Neptune temple. The camp is a twisted playground for two contrasting masters. S.S. Major Volkmann (Anthony Valentine), a brutal advocate of Nazi extremism, revels in torment, while the camp's sophisticated commandant, Major Otto Hecht (Sir Roger Moore), a former Viennese art dealer, savors the decadence of life, oblivious to political correctness. Hecht's camp, a façade for Berlin's archaeological loot, is actually his personal black market, trading true treasures through his Swiss sister. Among his "privileged" prisoners are the erudite archaeology Professor Blake (David Niven), the versatile Italian chef, Bruno Rotelli (Sonny Bono), the charismatic American performers Charlie (Elliott Gould) and Dottie Del Mar (Stefanie Powers), and the resilient black U.S. P.O.W. Nat Judson (Richard Roundtree). Despite their diverse backgrounds, these unlikely allies hatch an intricate plan to overthrow their captors. Their rebellion finds an ally in Zeno (Telly Savalas), a valiant Greek resistance leader, determined to shield his villagers from arbitrary German execution. Together, they set their sights on not just their freedom, but also a legendary treasure concealed within a monastery perched atop the nearby Mount Athena. Persuaded by the allure of the hidden riches, Hecht agrees to join their audacious plot for a share of the spoils. Yet, as the Allied invasion looms, Zeno's true intentions unravel. Mount Athena is more than just a treasure trove; it's a veil for a clandestine German rocket installation. The fate of the island and its invaluable art heritage hangs in the balance. 'Escape to Athena' weaves a thrilling tale of war, resistance, and an arduous quest for freedom against the backdrop of a world at war.

Escape to Athena is an adventure movie featuring Roger Moore and directed by George P. Cosmatos.

Escape to Athena is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Freevee, Plex, Plex Player, Pluto TV, Popcornflix, Shout! Factory TV, The Roku Channel and Tubi TV.

It is also possible to buy Escape to Athena on Amazon Video.