"Escape from Alcatraz" is a 1979 American prison thriller film directed by Don Siegel, based on the non-fiction book by J. Campbell Bruce. The film stars Clint Eastwood as Frank Morris, a career criminal who masterminds a daring escape from the infamous Alcatraz prison in 1962. This film marks the fifth and final collaboration between Siegel and Eastwood, following successful projects like "Dirty Harry" and "Coogan's Bluff."
The plot begins with Morris arriving at Alcatraz, known for its high security and the belief that no inmate has ever escaped. He quickly befriends fellow inmates John and Clarence Anglin (played by Fred Ward and Jack Thibeau) and Charley Butts (Larry Hankin), forming a plan to break out. Utilizing improvised tools, including a stolen nail clipper, they dig through the walls of their cells to access a ventilation shaft that leads to the roof. The escape plan culminates in a tense sequence where Morris and the Anglin brothers execute their escape on the night of June 11, 1962, using a makeshift raft to navigate the treacherous waters of San Francisco Bay.
The film is notable for its realistic portrayal of prison life and meticulous attention to detail regarding the escape plan. It builds suspense as Morris and his accomplices face numerous challenges, including the ever-watchful guards and the harsh conditions of Alcatraz. The climax leaves viewers questioning the fate of the escapees, as they are never found despite extensive manhunts.
Upon its release on June 22, 1979, "Escape from Alcatraz" received critical acclaim for its gripping narrative and Eastwood's performance, contributing to its status as one of the best prison films ever made. The film was both a commercial success and has since become a classic in the genre, often praised for its direction, screenplay, and Eastwood's portrayal of a determined and resourceful protagonist.
Overall, "Escape from Alcatraz" remains a compelling exploration of freedom and resilience against oppressive circumstances, solidifying its place in cinematic history as an iconic representation of one of America's most notorious prisons.