Watch San Quentin

San Quentin is a gripping film noir that transports the viewer to the infamous prison of the same name, located in California. The movie, released in 1946, is directed by Gordon Douglas and stars Lawrence Tierney, Marian Carr, and Barton MacLane. The story begins with Joe Quinn (Tierney), a bitter ex-soldier who gets incarcerated for a robbery he didn't commit. Quinn's frustration with the unjust system runs high as he navigates the harsh reality of life behind bars. He's constantly subjected to the brutality of the prison guards and the hierarchy of criminals who rule the inside of the prison walls. Quinn meets a young woman named Ann (Carr) who serves as a ray of hope amidst the dimly lit corridors of San Quentin.

As the story unfolds, viewers are transported through a series of gritty scenes that convey the daily hardships and struggles that exist within the walls of San Quentin. The film performs a masterful job of presenting the shockingly violent and inhumane treatment of prisoners, portrayed with graphic details that leave a lasting impact.

Throughout his time serving his unjust sentence, Quinn's resentment towards the system and those who enforce it only grows. However, his resolve is tested when he learns the truth about the crime that landed him in prison in the first place. Faced with this newfound knowledge, Quinn has to choose whether to continue to be a victim of the system or to take matters into his own hands.

The character development throughout the film is excellent, and the actors give solid performances. Lawrence Tierney delivers a convincing portrayal of Quinn, the tough-talking ex-soldier who keeps his guard up even in the most trying of circumstances. Marian Carr plays the role of Ann, the compassionate woman who helps break down Quinn's walls, beautifully.

Barton MacLane's performance as Captain 'Mark' Markary is also noteworthy. As the man in charge of the prison guards, MacLane's character is relentless, displaying the villainous nature that was a hallmark of characters in film noirs of the time.

The cinematography in San Quentin is also remarkable. The scenes inside the prison have a gloomy and despairing atmosphere, emphasizing the hopelessness of the prisoners. The camera angles, the lighting, and the editing all work together to keep the audience engaged and on edge, waiting for the next twist in the plot to unfold.

In conclusion, San Quentin is a cinematic gem of the film noir genre. It's a must-watch for fans of classic crime movies, but also for anyone who wants to understand the brutal reality of life in a correctional facility. The film's plot is complex, the acting is superb, and the cinematography is impressive. Moreover, it presents a compelling social commentary on the prison system, providing viewers with food for thought long after the film's conclusion.

San Quentin is a 1937 crime movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 10 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.9.