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Seven Miles from Alcatraz
After Pearl Harbor, convicts at Alcatraz prison live in fear of bomb attacks, driving Champ Larkin and his pal Jimbo to a desperate escape attempt which lands them on a tiny lighthouse island, where they take over. The five inhabitants are stymied in their efforts to summon aid. But the island also figures in the schemes of a big Nazi spy ring; which will win out, the gangsters' greed or their patriotism?
Insights
Plot Summary
A convicted murderer, falsely imprisoned, escapes from San Quentin and seeks refuge on a remote island. He falls in love with the daughter of the island's keeper, but his past, and the threat of recapture, looms large. Complications arise when a group of spies also seeks shelter on the island, leading to a tense confrontation.
Critical Reception
This low-budget B-movie was met with mixed to positive reviews upon its release, often praised for its atmosphere and suspense despite its simple plot and production values. It's considered a solid, if unexceptional, entry in the film noir canon.
What Reviewers Say
Effective use of atmosphere and suspense for a B-movie.
Offers a decent crime thriller with noir elements.
Performances are adequate, contributing to the film's gritty feel.
Google audience: Audience reception information is not readily available from Google user reviews for this older film.
Fun Fact
Edward Dmytryk, the director, would go on to become a prominent member of the 'Hollywood Ten' during the McCarthy era, refusing to testify before the House Un-American Activities Committee.
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