Review of Escape from Alcatraz (1979) by Isabelle W — 23 Jul 2012

Escape From Alcatraz, Great Movies.

There are many people who regard *The Shawshank Redemption* as the ultimate prison movie. I seriously think that as well. In terms of atmosphere and realism, this is a much more superior movie. Also, when you watch this movie it becomes obvious to you how incredibly much Stephen King copied from this movie for the both of his novels that are set in prisons; *The Shawshank Redemption* and to a smaller extend *The Green Mile*.

Yes, *The Shawshank Redemption* has a totally brilliant story and some top-class acting but I feel *Escape from Alcatraz* is also a better prison movie. The story is more believable which add to the realism of the movie. *Shawshank* is a way more over-dramatized movie if you like, while this film is just simply realistic and honest with its story. Yes the story of this movie might be told and filmed in a slow way but the movie is only 112 minutes long, so this shouldn't be a serious complaint. The movie is never dragging and not a minute shorter or longer than was needed.

What makes this film an absolute classic is the atmosphere, and like I said before the realism of the characters, the events and the story in general. It was also great to see Clint Eastwood in this role. Before this movie he mostly only played just the hero's in westerns and in WWII movies or as super cop Harry Callahan. I think this is more a movie in which Clint shows his acting abilities.

In my opinion, the ultimate prison movie and an absolute classic, due to its atmosphere and realism. Whether its fiction or non-fiction. And I still loved *Shawshank*, don't worry!