Watch McVicar

McVicar is a 1980 British crime drama film based on the true story of legendary British armed robber, John McVicar. The movie is directed by Tom Clegg and stars Roger Daltrey as McVicar, Adam Faith as his partner in crime, Walter Probyn and Cheryl Campbell as McVicar's girlfriend. It is considered to be one of the most realistic and gritty portrayals of the British prison system in the 1970s.

The movie starts by introducing the viewers to McVicar, who is serving a 23-year sentence in a high-security prison in England. The story then takes us back to the time when McVicar and Probyn were carrying out their criminal activities. The two of them are shown robbing banks, post offices and security vans, while struggling to stay ahead of the law.

However, their luck finally runs out and they are caught and sentenced to long prison terms. But McVicar is determined not to let the prison system break him. He begins to educate himself and becomes a published author while in prison. However, he is continuously thwarted by the system and is brutally beaten by the guards.

Throughout the movie, we see McVicar’s relationship with his girlfriend developing, as she becomes his main source of support and strength. Cheryl Campbell plays the role of Sheila, who is portrayed as the only person who truly understands McVicar.

The prison scenes in the movie are very raw and intense, with a lot of focus on the brutality of the guards and the inhumane conditions that the prisoners are subjected to. The movie also shows the corrupt practices within the prison system, with McVicar being offered parole by the governor if he writes a book that deflects blame from the authorities for the problems within the prison.

One of the highlights of the movie is the incredible performance by Roger Daltrey. He brings an authenticity to the role of McVicar that is truly remarkable. He is intense and brooding, but also very vulnerable and emotional. Adam Faith is also very good as Walter Probyn, playing the role with a lot of gusto and energy.

McVicar is a movie that is hard-hitting and unapologetically realistic. It is a depiction of the harsh reality of the British prison system during the 1970s. The movie is gritty and intense and shows the struggles of both the prisoners and their families. It is a movie that will make you think about the justice system, human rights, and the power of the written word.

Overall, McVicar is a powerful movie that is definitely worth watching. It is a story of rebellion and resilience and an inspiration to anyone who is fighting against injustice. If you are a fan of true crime movies or are interested in the British prison system, then this is a movie that you should not miss.