Lead Actors: Sydney Poitier, Tony Curtis, Theodore Bikel
Producer: Stanley Kramer
Plot Synopsis: Two men are driving a prison work crew back to prison. They sit in the front of the bus, trying desperately to make out the road!
What happens next is a crash in the rain. By the time the authorities arrive at the crash site, we realize that some on the chain gang died, some are being taken to the hospital, but that Noah and John escaped.
Who Would Like it and Why
People who like movies about people. This movie centers not only on the two prisoners and the humanity they might or might not have hidden under their rough exterior, but also the Sheriff Max Muller whose job it is to find them.
As the two make their way through the countryside, we meet a bloodthirsty mob, a compassionate former convict, a young boy and a very lonely widow.
We get to see these people through the eyes of the prisoners for a short time and how they act under extraordinary circumstances.
Sydney Poitier Fans
Sydney Poitier is a dynamic, good-looking actor who was doing his thing before Denzel Washington had even left his mom's house. He always said he would never play a character demeaning to his people, and he safeguards that oath here in this movie. Poitier gives Cullen a quiet dignity, and reveals a bit of soul underneath the terrible prison garb.
Tony Curtis Fans
The father of Jamie Lee Curtis. He displays great range in this character study movie.
Who Might not Like it and Why
Well, this movie is in black and white, and it moves a little slower. But it is solid!
Highlights/Top Scenes
The Posse that Sheriff Muller assembles has some pretty interesting yet blood thirsty characters in it. There is the man in charge of the dogs who is more protective of his K9s then he is the prisoner. Then there is the temporarily deputized hillbilly who insists on playing rock and roll music on the radio during the entire chase.
Bikel's relaxed pace as the Sheriff, then his mounting intensity as he realizes his job might be on the line if he doesn't catch these men is interesting to watch as well.
Three Mike and Ikes.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Seen this movie?
Liked it?
Highlights?