It featured an early performance by John Gavin who had just signed with Universal.[1] It was sometimes referred to as his first film[2] although he had appeared in Raw Edge under another name. In March 1956 it was said "John Gilmore" was in the film but in the credits he is called "John Gavin".[3]
Plot
Inmates pull a prison break, taking the warden and another prisoner as hostages. But when the car gets into a crash, killing the others, the warden makes off with the gang's loot and places the blame on the other hostage.
Praising the movie for its dramatic tension, character conflict, and persistent darkness of tone and character, Filmospheric noted that Behind the High Wall masterfully illustrates victimization by metaphor in select scenes: “The movie’s tone accordingly becomes darker as the plot moves forward and the warden increasingly becomes the prisoner of his conscience with his righteous wife serving as its guard. The upending of the lead character couldn’t have been more masterful.”[4]
References
↑ Schallert, Edwin (June 22, 1956). "Drama: Third Cagney Subject Developed by Writer; Stevens Slates 'Feud'". Los Angeles Times. p.23.
↑ THOMAS M. PRYOR (July 17, 1957). "LONDON STAGE HIT BOUGHT FOR FILM: 'Summer of the Seventeenth Doll' Sold to Hecht--John Gavin Gets Starring Role Cast in 'Time to Love' Columbia Jobs Shifted". New York Times. p.21.
↑ "Drama: 'Old Man and Sea' Youth Quest Slated". Los Angeles Times. Feb 1, 1956. p.17.
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