Escape of Prisoner 614 (2018)
Directed by: Zack Golden
Written by: Zack Golden
Starring: Ron Perlman, Marin Starr, Jake McDorman, George Sample III, Sondra James, and John Hickman
When I initially received the email to review Escape of Prisoner 614, I had a Western in mind. Although not a Western, I remained excited to see where this mystery film was going to take me. I am always up for entertainment during my mundane and heavily soiled work week.
I shook the road dust off of me upon returning home, then did my daily post-work routine. After finally taking refuge on my ever so inviting couch, I hit the play button and then cracked my neck. Thurman Hayford (McDorman) and Jim Doyle (Starr) as the Sheriff’s deputy’s seemed humorous in the opening frame so I tossed all possible distractions out of the window.
As the dust began to settle, I soon noticed certain elements of the film which bothered me. Thurman Hayford and Jim Doyle were equally sheriff’s deputies, but McDorman clearly stood out from his colleague. After a few more minutes, I began to question the necessity for Martin Starr’s character. It didn’t seem like he belonged. On the other hand, Ron Perlman’s performance as the sheriff was brilliant! He made me dislike him and he made me believe in his power and persuasion. Sadly, compared to Perlman, both McDorman and Star’s acting next to the Sons of Anarchy powerhouse looked as silly and undeveloped as their characters.
Once George Sample III made his appearance, I was hoping to get more from Jim Doyle. I believe Doyle’s quiet nature would have blended nicely with Andre (Prisoner 614). I feel that connection could have brought out Andre’s character more. Sadly, despite naming the movie Escape of Prisoner 614, Andre’s character was left back by the old oak tree. “Can we establish some improv, please! CUT!” I scream at the top of my lungs…
The camera work, lighting, and acting all seemed present but I feel the interaction between the actors never came full circle. The movie established humor, drama, and emotion, but although seemingly organized, the message in the movie was very confusing. I don’t know who to blame for the end result. Perhaps I should just chalk up Escape of Prisoner 614 as a movie that had all the elements, but never delivered.
In the end, the biggest injustice of Escape of Prisoner 614 was how Andre, (the {coughs} man the movie was intended to be about), seemed like a convict the entire time. It was disturbing to me. George Sample III did an excellent job. Unfortunately, his fate lied in the hands of two incompetent sheriff’s deputies/actors. I waited for his moment where I could finally feel vindication for a man who lived through so much adversity when completely innocent. Sadly, George Sample III and the man he portrayed in the film was buried in an unfinished product. 3.0 out of 10 for me.
Do you agree if my review? I am always up for feedback and to hear your opinions! You can comment on this article and/or reach me at artisticnick78@gmail.com. Thanks!