Alcatraz is a prison from which there have been absolutely no successful escapes, many who tried to escape were shot dead, others drowned in the cold waters of the sea.
The most famous escape attempt was made by Frank Morris and brothers John and Clarence Englin. These three escaped from their cells on June 11, 1962, with one of the most elaborate escape plans ever devised.
It is the perfect escape that will be told in this film.
Clint Eastwood's portrayal of Frank Morris is remarkably accurate. The thoughtfulness, and seriousness of this character only enhances his main merits. The other actors coped with their task rather well, and we would like to notice Fred Ward playing the role of John Englin.
English, sitting on the highest step, turning to Morris - 'I think there are two reasons why you didn't sit on my step, either you got cold feet or you hate black people. So what's the matter, friend? Overcompensated? Morris leisurely takes a seat on the step and replies to English - "No. I just hate blacks.
Most of all, I'd like to mention Don Siegel's directing. Already it is noticeable that with Clint Eastwood, they worked well together, says their previous joint work in the movie. You can feel all the tension of the escape, you can feel how Frank Morris and the others were preparing for it. Though there are no action sequences, you can watch it in the same breath. This unique atmosphere of working on an escape plan and executing it keeps the viewer in suspense throughout the film.
There are quite a lot of movies with a similar plot, but Escape from Alcatraz is one of the best. Moreover, it is based on real events. On top of that, there is excellent directing and amazing acting.