The Bridge on the River Kwai of honor and the hypocrisy of Britain’s class system without ever compromising its thrilling war narrative", and in comparing to other films of the time said that Bridge on the River Kwai "carefully builds its psychological tension until it erupts in a blinding flash of sulfur and flame.". Variety gave high praise for the movie saying that it is "a gripping drama, expertly put together and handled with skill in all departments.". Significant praise was also given to the actors especially Alec Guinness, Variety said that "the film is unquestionably Guinness’". William Holden was also credited for his acting, he
The Bridge over the River Kwai manual labor. In response to this, Nicholson informs Saito that, under the Hague Conventions (1899 and 1907), officers cannot be required to do hard work. Saito reiterates his demand and Nicholson remains adamant in his refusal to submit his officers to manual labor. Because of Nicholson's unwillingness to back down, he and his officers are placed in the "ovens"—small, iron boxes sitting in the heat of day. Eventually, Nicholson's stubbornness forces Saito to relent. Construction of the bridge serves as a symbol of the preservation of professionalism and personal integrity to one prisoner, Colonel Nicholson, a proud perfectionist. Pitted against