Review of Escape from Alcatraz (1979) by Chris W — 09 Dec 2012
Alcatraz prison, aka The Rock had a reputation for being inescapable, despite the fact that many tried. This film, one of several collaborations between director Don Siegel and Clint Eastwood, is a retelling of perhaps the most famous attempt ever conducted.
It's 1962, and lifer Frank Morris has had just about enough of life behind bars at Alcatraz. Along with two others, Frank begins hatching an inspired plot to be the first ones to successfully flee from the island prison.
It is definitely to the credit of Siegel and others that, even with the ending being known, that this a quite an engrossing nail-biter. The film really draws you in with great atmosphere and holds you in a strong web of suspense all the way through. The editing and cinematography really shine here.
The performances aren't too shabby either, with Patrick McGoohan doing great as the evil Warden, and Eastwood delivering a typically solid turn as Frank. Fred Ward is also quite nice as one of the guys trying to bust out with Frank.
All in all, this is quite an enjoyable and solid thriller. Go check it out.
This review of Escape from Alcatraz (1979) was written by Chris W on 09 Dec 2012.
Escape from Alcatraz has generally received very positive reviews.
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