Cheltenham International Film Festival
Prison 77 - part of the Cheltenham International Film Festival
This screening forms part of Cheltenham International Film Festival, which marks its 5th anniversary in 2023. The festival will screen new films from around the world, plus film classics and is adding television, and new live events to its programme, along with guest celebrities.
A real-life Shawshank redemption
Even though Spanish dictator Franco died in 1975, the transition to democracy took years to accomplish, and many innocent people were caught up in the turmoil. Take ambitious accountant Manuel (Miguel Herran) who suddenly finds himself in prison awaiting a trail that may not take place for years. Placed in a cell with veteran prisoner Pino (Javier Gutierrez), Manuel soon realises the horror of his situation. Together they start to organise the other prisoners to rebel.
Based on remarkable true events and filmed in the infamous Modelo prison, this powerfully acted and assuredly directed new thriller from Alberto Rodríguez (Marshland) features many tense highlights, including a recreation of a famous prison break in 1978. Focusing on friendship rather than conflict, it plays as a more authentic, true-life Shawshank Redemption.
A thrilling watch. Feels real and urgent. Whereas most prison films focus on strife, it’s the gradually developing friendship which forms the bedrock of the film Eye For Film