Cast
Richard Travis
Dennis Daniel "Red" O'Hara
Julie Bishop
Molly O'Hara
Jackie Gleason
Evans - Convict Getting Mug Shot (as Jackie C. Gleason)
Frank Wilcox
Cornell
Rex Williams
Slim Dugan
Wade Boteler
Lieutenant 'Biff' Malone
Charles C. Wilson
C.L. Reardon - Managing Editor (as Charles Wilson)
Paul Fix
Dude Merrill
Ruth Ford
Myrt - Slim's Moll
John Hamilton
Rafferty
Ann Corcoran
Belle Mason - Dude's Moll
Ben Taggart
Warden Kirby
Hank Mann
Pete
William Hopper
Hastings
Bill Edwards
Reporter
Crew
Director
- D. Ross Lederman
Producer
- William Jacobs
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Escape from Crime represents a fascinating example of Crime cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director D. Ross Lederman brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1942, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Escape from Crime took approximately 12 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 51 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 109 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 67 unique compositions.
- The costume department created over 325 unique costume pieces for the production.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1942, when this film was released:
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Escape from Crime shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Supremacy, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Escape from Crime subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Over-Exposed and The Photographic Experience explore similar territory, Escape from Crime stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: July 25, 1942
- Runtime: 51m
