The Blue Max (1966) Original Movie Poster 27" x 41" George Peppard & James Mason. The Blue Max (1966) is a World War I aviation drama directed by John Guillermin. The film follows Bruno Stachel, a German infantryman turned fighter pilot, whose ruthless ambition drives him to seek the coveted Blue Max medal. The movie showcases stunning aerial combat sequences and explores themes of honor and the destructiveness of war. George Peppard stars as Bruno Stachel, with notable performances from James Mason as General Count von Klugermann and Ursula Andress as his scheming wife, Kaeti.