In 1962, three notorious criminals made a daring escape from the most secure prison in the United States, Alcatraz. This real-life event inspired the 1979 film “Escape from Alcatraz,” starring Clint Eastwood as Frank Morris, the mastermind behind the escape. The film not only captivated audiences but also grossed an impressive $43 million against its $8 million budget.
“Escape from Alcatraz” is based on the true story of Frank Morris, John Anglin, and Clarence Anglin, who managed to break free from the infamous island prison. The film’s gripping narrative and Eastwood’s compelling performance have made it a classic in the prison drama genre. Here are ten behind-the-scenes facts about this iconic film that you might find intriguing.
Clint Eastwood was significantly older than the character he portrayed. Frank Morris was 35 years old at the time of the escape, while Eastwood was 48 during filming. Despite this age difference, audiences accepted Eastwood’s portrayal without hesitation.
One notable scene in the film shows Morris stumbling around disoriented after being released from solitary confinement. This behavior was inspired by real-life accounts of prisoners who exhibited similar disorientation upon their release. The filmmakers aimed to capture the psychological impact of imprisonment authentically.
The film was released 15 years after the actual escape took place. The escape occurred on June 11, 1962, and the film premiered on June 22, 1979. Interestingly, this was also 14 years after Alcatraz closed its doors as a prison in 1963, although it remains a popular tourist destination today.
Filming took place on Alcatraz Island while tours were still being conducted. To minimize disruptions, the production team primarily filmed at night. This unique situation led to some interesting interactions, as tour guides on the island still receive questions about which cell Eastwood occupied during filming. For the record, it was cell N.109, while Morris’s actual cell was N.138.
Weather conditions posed significant challenges during the shoot. San Francisco’s notorious fog and dampness were prevalent on Alcatraz, making nighttime filming particularly difficult. The crew faced cold, windy, and rainy conditions, with no heating available on the island. This meant that cast and crew often endured uncomfortable filming conditions.
Interestingly, Clint Eastwood had visited Alcatraz before. He shot scenes for his third “Dirty Harry” film, “The Enforcer,” on the island in 1976. This prior experience likely contributed to his familiarity with the location and its atmosphere.
The character of Chester “Doc” Dalton, played by Roberts Blossom, was inspired by a real inmate. However, the gruesome act of cutting off his fingers, depicted in the film, was based on an incident involving a different inmate, Rufe Persful, who did so in protest of the prison’s strict silence policy.
In a remarkable feat, no stunt doubles were used during the film’s climactic escape scene. Eastwood, Fred Ward, and Jack Thibeau performed the stunts themselves, showcasing their athleticism and commitment to authenticity. This decision added a layer of realism to the film’s portrayal of the escape.
While the film suggests that the escape was a secretive endeavor, many inmates were aware of the plan. Interviews conducted after the prison’s closure revealed that some prisoners even offered supplies to assist Morris and the Anglin brothers in their escape.
The fate of Frank Morris, John Anglin, and Clarence Anglin remains a mystery. Despite extensive manhunts, the escapees were never found. Some believe they drowned in the treacherous waters surrounding Alcatraz, while others speculate they successfully escaped and lived out their lives under new identities. This unresolved ending adds to the film’s intrigue and leaves viewers pondering the possibilities.
“Escape from Alcatraz” is not just a thrilling prison drama; it is a meticulously crafted film that delves into the monotony of prison life and the human spirit’s desire for freedom. Directed by Don Siegel, the film showcases Eastwood’s understated performance, which stands out in his filmography. The supporting cast, including Patrick McGoohan as the Warden and Roberts Blossom as Doc, adds depth to the narrative.
The film’s screenplay, written by Richard Tuggle, is based on J. Campbell Bruce’s non-fiction book about the Alcatraz escape. Tuggle faced numerous rejections before finally getting the script into the hands of director Don Siegel, who recognized its potential. The collaboration between Siegel and Eastwood marked the fifth and final time they worked together, solidifying their legacy in Hollywood.
“Escape from Alcatraz” received critical acclaim upon its release and is often regarded as one of the best films of 1979. Critics praised its storytelling, cinematography, and Eastwood’s performance. The film’s ability to convey the harsh realities of prison life without moral grandstanding resonated with audiences and critics alike.
In conclusion, “Escape from Alcatraz” remains a significant film in the prison drama genre, not only for its thrilling narrative but also for the real-life events that inspired it. The behind-the-scenes facts reveal the dedication of the cast and crew in bringing this story to life, making it a timeless classic that continues to captivate viewers.
Source: Various sources
