This is a fantastic prison drama - better, faster and more tense than EACH DAWN I DIE - seriously! Every second builds the tension and every scene adds to the drama of this exceptionally made picture.
This was Marion Gering's first film he made with his favourite actress Sylvia Sidney. Under his direction she instantly captures your sympathy and as the story progresses your heart is your mouth.
Mr Gering was one of the most imaginative and dynamic directors Paramount had. He really knew how to get his audience to engage. Unfortunately for him Paramount also had some of the greatest directors in their stable so as the decade went on, his prominence there faded - sadly and really unfairly he faded into obscurity. He truly made some of the best movies of the pre-code era.... someone needs to start up a Marion Gering appreciation society!
This picture is the perfect prison drama. I can't imagine how it could possibly be any better. You don't notice the gaping plot holes or the cheesy ending, you're just totally entranced.
