CINEMA: The Escapist

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With a cast to die for and a very clever script, The Escapist weaves a tale that is absolutely unbelievable, but like the best theatrical shows, becomes compulsive viewing.

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Set in a highly-stylised prison we follow the fortunes of lifer Frank Perry (Brian Cox) as he quietly goes about his business not getting involved in the violence and gang politics about him. But all that changes when he discovers his beloved daughter is critically ill and he vows to escape in order to see her one last time. Helping him are his prison friends Lenny (Joseph Fiennes), Brodie (Liam Cunningham) and Viv (Seu Jorge), but things become complicated when Frank gets a new cell-mate, the young and clueless James (Dominic Cooper) who attracts the attentions of sadistic Tony (Steven Macintosh), whose big bruv just happens to be the prison kingpin Rizza (Damian Lewis).

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The plans and execution of the escape are complicated but also ingenious and the cut up nature of the narrative means you need to give the film your full attention to keep up. However, because every one of these characters is so believable and so well acted, the movie more than holds your interest. It’s incredibly atmospheric, with the threat of violence palpable in every scene and you’ll find yourself rooting for Frank and his motley crew, willing them to make it to the outside.      Dee Pilgrim