Birdman of Alcatraz (1962) Reviews

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In this film based on a true story, Burt Lancaster plays Robert Stroud, a withdrawn prison inmate who cures a sick bird that flies into his cell and eventually becomes a world-renowned ornithologist -- all while serving a life sentence. An overbearing warden (Karl Malden) eventually transfers Stroud to the notoriously brutal prison on Alcatraz, but he is able to continue his research, abort a riot, start a romance, and eventually get his story out through a determined reporter (Edmond O'Brien). Directed with his usual solid craftsmanship by John Frankenheimer, Birdman Of Alcatraz tells a quietly moving tale for which Lancaster, Telly Savalas (as one of Stroud's fellow inmates), and Thelma Ritter (as Stroud's mother) all received Oscar nominations. ~ Don Kaye, Rovi

Starring:: Burt Lancaster, Karl Malden, (more)

Director(s):: John Frankenheimer

Format(s):: DVD
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Average Ratings

(4 member reviews)

Member Reviews

	Scott W.

6 out of 9 people found this review helpful

This movie is based on a true story. Robert Stroud was a murderer, with only a 3rd grade education. He reformed himself while serving a life term in a isolated cell. He researched diseases that afflict birds, developed cures, and became a world authority on the subject. He published articles and even a book on the subject. The story is very inspiring since he must overcome many obstacles, lack of supplies, being inventive and defend his work. Eventually his work on avian research is forced to terminate, when he is sent to Alcatraz. The last part of the movie is shot on location inside the old prison in San Francisco bay. Stroud played an instrumental role in ending the stand off with U.S. Marines in the "Battle of Alcatraz". If you ever plan to visit Alcatraz, this movie is a must see before your trip.

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	Kurt O.

2 out of 3 people found this review helpful

A long but very good movie. Definitely worth seeing. Even my 14 year old enjoyed it, which is a real endorsement

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	Charles E.

1 out of 2 people found this review helpful

This is a classic, a little long, but a classic. There are scenes that seem to drag on forever, some intense violence and very interesting prison moments that sure wouldn't happen today. Burt Lancaster is a killer and is sentenced to hang. He's in solitary right next to the gallows being built especially for him. The movie is based on a true story. What happens next you'll have to watch for yourself.

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	K. K.

1 out of 2 people found this review helpful

I'm a big fan of sci-fi and modern action movies w/great special effects... so this was a refreshing change of pace. I haven't seen many Burt Lancaster movies, so this was a welcome surprise. The story is fascinating, the acting is tight, and it was interesting to see what a good movie could be made 'back in the day' without a huge set production budget that is so common today. Also, it's not necessarily a bleeding heart prisoner's rights sort of movie ala Shawshank Redemption or Dead Man Walking, so this should appeal to a larger audience.

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