"The Bridge on the River Kwai" is based on historical events but is not a true story in the strictest sense. It was inspired by the construction of the Burma Railway during World War II, where Allied POWs were forced to build a railway bridge in Thailand. The film, directed by David Lean and released in 1957, dramatizes the experiences of these prisoners, particularly focusing on the character of Colonel Nicholson, who is fictional. While it captures the essence of the era and the hardships faced, many details are fictionalized for dramatic effect.

"The Bridge on the River Kwai" was primarily filmed in Sri Lanka. The lush landscapes and jungles of Sri Lanka served as the backdrop for the film, which was set during World War II in a Japanese POW camp in Burma. Key locations included the Kandy region, where the iconic bridge scenes were shot. The film, directed by David Lean and released in 1957, became a classic and won several Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Yes, the bridge over the River Kwai still exists. Located in Kanchanaburi, Thailand, it was originally built by prisoners of war during World War II as part of the Burma Railway. The original wooden bridge was replaced with a steel structure in 1943, and it has since become a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can walk across the bridge and learn about its historical significance, including the hardships faced by the POWs who built it. The site is part of a larger memorial dedicated to those who suffered during the war.

In "The Bridge on the River Kwai," the song whistled by the characters is "Colonel Bogey March," composed by Lieutenant F. J. Ricketts. This iconic tune becomes a significant motif in the film, symbolizing the resilience and spirit of the prisoners of war. The whistling of the march serves as a form of defiance against their captors and underscores the psychological aspects of their situation. The music has since become closely associated with the film and is recognized widely in popular culture.