Escape at Dawn
Escape at Dawn

Movie spotlight

Escape at Dawn

1975
Movie
95 min
Georgian

The trial of political prisoners is taking place in the Kutaisi prison. They face hanging or life imprisonment. In order to release them from prison, a party figure, nicknamed "Chagara" and a revolutionary woman, "Vardo", aka Nato Nakashidze-Volfisa, come to the city. She rents a house near the prison, supposedly to open a knitting workshop. Will they be able to escape?

Insights

IMDb6.9/10
Director: Joseph SargentGenres: Drama, History, Thriller

Plot Summary

Based on a true story, this television film chronicles the harrowing escape of three American POWs from a brutal North Vietnamese prison camp during the Vietnam War. Despite facing extreme hardship, torture, and constant surveillance, the men devise a daring plan to break free and navigate treacherous jungle terrain to reach safety. Their journey is a testament to the human spirit's resilience and the unwavering desire for freedom against overwhelming odds.

Critical Reception

Escape at Dawn was generally well-received by critics for its intense drama and faithful portrayal of the POWs' ordeal. While some noted it as a standard made-for-television war film, others praised its suspense and the performances of its cast, particularly Richard Crenna. It was recognized for bringing a significant historical event to a wider audience.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its suspenseful narrative and intense portrayal of the escape.

  • Richard Crenna's performance was highlighted as a strong element.

  • Seen as a compelling, albeit sometimes predictable, made-for-TV war drama.

Google audience: Audience reception data is not readily available for this specific television film.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for Outstanding Directing in a Special Program - Musical or Dramatic for Joseph Sargent at the Primetime Emmy Awards.

Fun Fact

The film is based on the true story of the escape of U.S. prisoners of war from the Sơn Tây prison camp in 1970, although the film's narrative takes some dramatic liberties and sets the event during the broader Vietnam War context.

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