The Bridge on the River Kwai Film Summary & Analysis

Essay Questions

Why is Shears different from most of the other prisoners?

How did Nicholson come to be in the camp?

Why are the officers put in the ovens?

What is Saito's mission?

Why does Saito finally give in?

What will happen to Saito if he does not meet his goals? What do you think Saito would have done if he were not under this pressure?

What is Nicholson's goal for his men?

Why does Shears return to the camp?

Why does Nicholson attack a British soldier?

What is Nicholson's last heroic act?