Alcatraz: The Whole Shocking Story
Filmed on location at Alcatraz Island, this two-part "whole story" actually concentrates on a handful of the denizens behind the cold grey walls of "The Rock". Michael Beck plays the real-life Clarence Carnes, an Oklahoma Choctaw Indian said to be the youngest man ever incarcerated in the notorious maximum security prison. Serving a 99-year sentence for a gas station holdup and murder, Carnes makes periodic attempts to escape, the final attempt being the most violent. Many of the subordinate characters are fictional (as are most of the details concerning Carnes' escape efforts); the one exception is Robert Stroud, the "Birdman of Alcatraz", here portrayed by Art Carney as a gentle, kindly philosopher. Telly Savalas, a costar of the Burt Lancaster vehicle Birdman of Alcatraz, also guest starred in the 1980 film. Originally titled Alcatraz and Clarence Carnes, this made-for-TV movie wavers between gritty realism and "I'm bustin' outta here!" artifice.
Insights
Plot Summary
This made-for-television film delves into the infamous 1962 escape from Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary. It chronicles the meticulous planning and execution of the breakout by Frank Morris and the Anglin brothers, juxtaposed with the relentless investigation led by the warden and FBI.
Critical Reception
As a made-for-television movie from 1980, "Alcatraz: The Whole Shocking Story" received a generally positive reception for its dramatic retelling of the famous escape. Critics often highlighted its suspenseful narrative and the performances of its cast, particularly Robert Stack as the determined investigator. It was seen as an engaging historical docudrama for its time, though some noted its limitations as a television production.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its suspenseful portrayal of the escape.
- Robert Stack's performance as the lead investigator was a standout.
- A compelling historical drama suitable for television audiences.
Google audience: Information not readily available for this older made-for-television film.
Fun Fact
Although the film depicts the escape as successful, the bodies of Frank Morris and the Anglin brothers were never found, leading to ongoing speculation about their fate.
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