**Prison Break (film)**
**Definition:**
*Prison Break* is a 1938 American crime drama film directed by Arthur Lubin. The film centers on a man who is wrongfully convicted of murder and his subsequent efforts to escape from prison and prove his innocence.
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# Prison Break (film)
## Overview
*Prison Break* is a 1938 American crime drama directed by Arthur Lubin and produced by Universal Pictures. The film stars Barton MacLane, Glenn Tryon, and June Travis. It tells the story of a man who is falsely accused and convicted of murder, and his attempts to escape from prison to clear his name. The film is notable for its portrayal of prison life and the themes of justice and redemption.
## Plot Summary
The narrative follows the protagonist, who is framed for a crime he did not commit. After being sentenced to prison, he faces the harsh realities of incarceration. Determined to prove his innocence, he devises a plan to break out of prison. The film explores his struggles both inside the prison walls and in the outside world as he seeks to uncover the truth and bring the real culprit to justice.
## Cast and Characters
– **Barton MacLane** as the lead character, the wrongfully convicted man.
– **Glenn Tryon** in a supporting role, often providing assistance or conflict.
– **June Travis** as the female lead, who may be a love interest or ally.
– Additional cast members portray prison officials, inmates, and other figures integral to the storyline.
## Production
### Direction and Screenplay
Arthur Lubin, known for his work in various genres, directed *Prison Break*. The screenplay was crafted to emphasize suspense and drama, focusing on the emotional and psychological impact of wrongful imprisonment.
### Cinematography and Music
The film features black-and-white cinematography typical of the era, with lighting and camera work designed to enhance the tense atmosphere of the prison setting. The musical score complements the dramatic tone, underscoring moments of tension and hope.
### Filming Locations
While primarily shot on studio sets designed to replicate prison interiors, some scenes may have been filmed on location to add authenticity.
## Themes
### Justice and Injustice
At its core, *Prison Break* examines the flaws in the justice system, highlighting how an innocent man can be ensnared by circumstantial evidence and corruption.
### Redemption and Hope
The protagonist’s journey is one of redemption, as he fights not only for his freedom but also to restore his reputation and integrity.
### The Human Spirit
The film portrays the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity, emphasizing determination and courage.
## Reception
Upon release, *Prison Break* received mixed to positive reviews. Critics praised the performances and the film’s suspenseful narrative but noted that some plot elements were formulaic. The film contributed to the genre of prison dramas popular in the 1930s and influenced later works exploring similar themes.
## Legacy
Though not as widely known today, *Prison Break* remains a representative example of 1930s crime dramas. It reflects the era’s cinematic style and societal concerns regarding crime and punishment. The film also helped solidify Arthur Lubin’s reputation as a versatile director.
## Related Works
*Prison Break* predates and is unrelated to the later television series of the same name. It belongs to a tradition of early 20th-century films that explore crime, justice, and incarceration.
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**Meta Description:**
*Prison Break* (1938) is an American crime drama directed by Arthur Lubin, focusing on a man wrongfully convicted of murder who attempts to escape prison and prove his innocence. The film explores themes of justice, redemption, and the resilience of the human spirit.