The film is set in WW2 in North Africa but actually being filmed in southern Spain does not detract from the believability. The acting is excellent, although Michael Caine is the only actor I knew before watching the film. The battle action is limited at best. The characters are given an almost insurmountable mission, and the main action of the film is the characters overcoming the obstacles in the way of completing the mission, mostly fighting the elements and terrain during the long trip through desert. While I never lost interest in the movie, I was hoping for significantly more actual battle. Without spoiling for those who haven't seen it before, I have to say I didn't care for the ending.