Four prison inmates have been hatching a plan to literally dig out of jail when another prisoner, Claude Gaspard, is moved into their cell. They take a risk and share their plan with the newcomer. Over the course of three days, the prisoners and friends break through the concrete floor using a bed post and begin to make their way through the sewer system -- yet their escape is anything but assured.
Nominated for 2 BAFTA Film Awards. Another 2 wins & 1 nomination.
Top Critics Reviews
fresh:
The actors, none of whom are familiar, play their roles with such simple, natural force that they become not only bold adventurers but also deeply appreciable friends.
– Bosley Crowther,
New York Times,
9 May 2005
fresh:
Classical in its intense simplicity, this is certainly Becker's most perfectly crafted film.
– Tom Milne,
Time Out,
24 Jun 2006
fresh:
Jacques Becker's 1959 film was the last great flowering of French classicism; the 'tradition of quality' here goes out with a masterpiece.