A captivating storyline; can’t say I was feeling sorry for almost all the escapees, the exception being Billy Lang (youngest of the group). Another Doctor gets killed doing his job; probably a good reason why Doctors stopped making house calls. Of the cast, the main villain, played by William Bendix, was most readily recognised; although I am not certain from which film or films I know him. Thank you for choosing to upload this film.
Yes, it was a damn fine film, especially for the budget. I too had the feeling that William Bendix was more than familiar, but looking through his resume I can't pinpoint anything in particular, whilst I am familiar with many of the films he starred in. Could we, or I, be confusing him with Lee J. Cobb? He has the same mannerisms and gravity... I think the character of Joe Quinn, played by Arthur Kennedy is also a sympathetic character. It's wonderful to know these older films are still valued, thank you.
@@isabellamars It is quite possible I am mixing William Bendix and Lee J. Cobb in my mind as they are indeed similar. They both have acted in films that I have definitely seen before: The Big Steal (1949) and 12 Angry Men, respectively. I must say I am certainly enjoying these older films too; still with so much to offer.
@@marty4933 I know I confused him with Lee J. Cobb, but now the nuance in my mind forced me to look into it again! The only pertinent things I came up with are that he starred in many TV shows, including The Untouchables and Mr. Ed. and was also in a film I previously posted, The Dark Corner 1946 ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-kgtGybJx9uw.html I still feel he was in something that's just too familiar...
The prison is a recurring motif in this absorbing drama which constantly drives home the ugly reality that there can be no real escape from prison despite the proverbial “Crashout”. Each of the characters who ‘enjoy’ transient and illusory images of freedom cannot break the shackles of the mind. They are tormented by pervading shadows of fear, suspicion, desperation, and insatiable greed. It is against this backdrop that the film captivates the viewer. Divergent levels of conflict play out in the rugged and inhospitable terrains that dominate the action. Much of the film is shrouded in symbolic darkness reinforcing the theme of futility. Although William Bendix is given top billing, it is Arthur Kennedy who, in my opinion, catches the eye with a thoroughly engrossing and multi-nuanced performance. This is not to undermine Bendix or others of this impressive cast. Kennedy’s role is a demanding one which he carries off with poise and sensitivity. I have always warmed to this talented actor and shall watch this film again to relish, once more, his portrayal of Joe Quinn the complex personality who gives the viewer an added dimension into the world of criminality. Beverely Michaels who featured in “Pickup” on this channel is a commanding presence caught in cross currents of conflicting emotions: protective mother, devoted daughter, loyal neighbour, and on-the-verge lover in a developing relationship. Her’s is a struggle to come to terms with the sudden and unforeseen circumstances which shake the very foundations of her tranquil existence. This is a far cry from the role she plays as the gold digger in “Pickup”. A talented actress, no doubt, who sadly did not fulfil her potential. Mention must be made of the work of veteran cinematographer Russell Metty (remember his outstanding contribution to the epic “Spartacus” of 1960, his opus magnum). His combination of short and long takes, ranging from capturing the palpable emotions of a ruthless killer to the scenic snow-covered mountains in all their majesty, makes for compelling viewing. Those claustrophobic scenes inside the cave early in the film are handled with great care to set the wheels in motion. Thank you, Isabella. You have delivered another treat. You whet the appetite for the “B” grader.
Thank you, Charlie, for another stellar review, and my apologies for my slow response. I'm happy you enjoyed it, as you explain, this film has remarkable depth, especially for a B Movie, I think in part because it came out of Ida Lupino's Production Company, Srandard Productions, I think all the films they put out during their brief existence are worth watching. I did not know that Russell Metty had been involved in cinematography in Spartacus, but it makes sense, the use of cinematography here is way better than expected on the budget they had to work with. I agree, It is the captivating aspect of this film that draws in the viewer, I was drawn into the characters, and the varied stories of each. It was good to see Beverly Michaels in a different and memorable role, it added to the depth of the story. Thank you, Charlie, for your review, it touches on aspects that I would not have articulated.
