Special Prison Cinema
This time I bring you a blog entry about the prison genre, specifically 4 films and a bonus of a series that couldn’t be missing in a post on this topic. This genre has something that particularly attracts me, partly because of how unknown the subject of prison is to me, and I hope it stays that way forever haha, and on the other hand the social dynamics that are generated within prison. These works show us the struggle for survival, redemption, and the search for freedom in oppressive and claustrophobic environments. In this article, we will explore some gems of this genre, from cinema classics to a successful television series. Here we go!
1. The Green Mile (1999)
Based on Stephen King’s novel, “The Green Mile,” this film directed by Frank Darabont immerses us in the dark world of a prison in Louisiana during the Great Depression. The story follows Paul Edgecomb, a prison guard played by Tom Hanks, and the inmates of the Green Mile, including a man with “special” abilities. Besides its powerful message about humanity and redemption, “The Green Mile” stands out for its emotive narrative and the brilliant performances of its cast.
Trivia: Michael Clarke Duncan, who portrays John Coffey, received an Oscar nomination for his moving performance as the inmate with “special” gifts.
I must admit that this movie departs from the stereotype of films with violent dynamics and dangerous gangs; it truly breaks your heart.
2. The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
This film directed by Frank Darabont, also based on a work by Stephen King, follows the story of Andy Dufresne, a banker convicted of a crime he didn’t commit. Locked up in Shawshank Prison, Andy finds friendship and hope in a desolate place. “The Shawshank Redemption” is acclaimed for its profound message about hope and resilience in the face of adversity, as well as for the masterful performances of Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman.
Trivia: Despite its disappointing box office performance, the film achieved considerable success in the home video market and became a classic of modern cinema, consistently ranking high on lists of the greatest films of all time.
Like the previous one, you won’t find the typical movie with great violence, but rather a more humane prison, so to speak.
3. Cell 211 (2009)
This Spanish film, directed by Daniel Monzón, plunges us into the violent world of a high-security prison. The protagonist, played by Luis Tosar, gets caught in the middle of a riot shortly after his arrival at the jail. To survive, he must adopt a false identity and navigate the complex power dynamics within the prison. “Cell 211” is a raw and realistic portrayal of prison life, with unexpected twists and palpable tension in every scene.
Trivia: The film won eight Goya Awards, including Best Picture, solidifying its status as a milestone in contemporary Spanish cinema.
I must say that even if you don’t speak the language, it’s still interesting to watch it in its original language; “Malamadre’s” voice gets engraved in your brain, a brutal performance.
4. Escape from Alcatraz (1979)
Directed by Don Siegel and starring Clint Eastwood, this film is based on the true story of the only successful escape from the famous Alcatraz prison. Eastwood plays Frank Morris, a convict determined to break free from the seemingly impenetrable fortress. “Escape from Alcatraz” is a fascinating tale of ingenuity and human determination in the face of the greatest odds.
Trivia: Although the film presents a dramatized version of events, the real-life escape from Alcatraz in 1962 remains one of the most famous unsolved mysteries in US history.
5. Prison Break (2005-2009, 2017)
This successful television series created by Paul Scheuring follows the story of Michael Scofield, a brilliant engineer who devises a plan to free his brother Lincoln Burrows from prison, where he is sentenced to death for a crime he didn’t commit. The series combines intrigue, action, and family drama in an exciting narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
Trivia: “Prison Break” was so popular that after its conclusion in 2009, it returned with a fifth season in 2017, continuing the story of the main characters.
I quite liked the first seasons; then I must admit it became quite repetitive. It got worse over time, but it still deserves a spot in this post.
That’s it for today’s list; I hope you liked it, and perhaps after watching them, you’ll reflect a bit on human nature and the desire for freedom in extreme circumstances, maybe in 2020 we all felt a bit like that during the Covid-19 lockdown. If you want to share any movies or series, don’t forget to put them in the comments.
Remember that you can watch these movies and series on the Stremio multimedia center. If you still don’t know what Stremio is, here’s a guide to help you make the most of it:
