9/10
Parker shows splendidly the terrible world of the Turkish prison...
7 February 2009
"Midnight Express" is the upsetting true story of an American youth detained at Istanbul Airport trying to smuggle several packets of hashish… This terrific movie based on Hayes' book details the terrible story of his severe experience and final escape…

Brad Davis puts on view the frustration, anxiety and severe mental suffering of a tragic figure... He stands shaking with fear in a small enclosed chamber…

At the court, Davis' looks were lacking energy and interest... His voice trembled with rage and affliction when he delivered a despairing frantic speech accusing the prosecuting attorney and the judge...

In a prison of desolation, he refuses to accept one captive's advances; he steals an informer's money for revenge; and gives a harsh lesson in brutality on one oppressor...

Paul Smith plays beautifully the brutal and sadistic head-guard... Being of nature cruel and heartless, this bald man is vindictive and indifferent to the truth... He is cruel, vicious, unjust, and verbally abusive...

The Turkish prison is seen as an environment so dirty, horrific and inhuman, clouded by rape, beatings, stress and punishment... Parker permits the cruel prison guards—characterized by their aggressive, cynical, and inflexible behavior—to speak in Turkish since this situation can easily create hopelessness, frustration, hatred and despair...
27 out of 67 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink

Recently Viewed