King of Alcatraz (1938)

King of Alcatraz Poster

A convict who has just escaped from Alcatraz Prison takes over a passenger ship. Two of the ship's crew hatch a plot to overpower him and rescue the ship's passengers.

Introduction
"King of Alcatraz" is an American drama movie released in 1938, directed by Robert Florey, and based on a story written by renowned author, Dalton Trumbo. The movie, produced by Paramount Pictures, stars Gail Patrick, Lloyd Nolan, and Harry Carey, among others. It supplies a thrilling story on resistance, leadership, and redemption set on the background of the notorious Alcatraz jail, a noteworthy feature popular in the American culture.

Main Plot
The primary plot revolves around a steamship, the SS Maloa, and its team led by Captain Glennan (Harry Carey). The crew comes across a problem when an egotistical ex-convict, Robert B. 'Bob' Dugan (played by Lloyd Nolan), formerly incarcerated at the notorious Alcatraz prison, is selected as their brand-new radio operator. Dugan's bitter past and questionable method towards managing his position raise alarms for the rest of the team, creating a tense atmosphere onboard.

Conflict and Resolution
The tension quickly escalates as Dugan starts asserting his authority and making reckless choices, risking the safety of the vessel and its citizens. Nevertheless, things take a turn when the Maloa is available in the path of a dangerous storm, which cripples their interaction system and leaves the crew and passengers vulnerable.

In the face of adversity and without any one else efficient in bring back the interaction system, Dugan steps up to harness his skills. By offering exact navigation and weather condition information, Dugan proves crucial in assisting the ship through the storm safely. By doing so, he gets the trust of the crew and starts reconstructing his damaged image.

Character Evolvement and Climax
The movie showcases Dugan's character's evolution from a big-headed ex-convict to a redeemed soul, who risks his life for the security and wellness of others. His decision, grit, and expertise shine forth during the crisis and help save the day, triggering the team and guests to see him under a new light.

In the climax, the Maloa encounters another ship, the SS Carfax, stuck in the storm, on the brink of sinking. Ignoring the common practices and versus Glennan's orders, Dugan chooses to help and sends the Maloa to save the Carfax's crew. This strong move, while at first seen as negligent, ultimately leads to saving lots of lives and earns Dugan the regard and appreciation of his crew, solidifying his transformation.

Conclusion
"King of Alcatraz" is an amazing drama film showcasing redemption, heroism, management, and the inherent ability of individuals to alter. Through a restricted setting and extreme plot dynamics, director Robert Florey effectively tells a tale of an unlikely hero rising from the shackles of his past to save the day. Dugan's character evolution is symbolic of the power of dealing with difficulty and the capacity for change, regardless of past defects or errors. The film, embeded in the 1930s, is a historic piece of movie theater that leaves viewers with an extensive message about redemption and second possibilities.

Top Cast

  • Gail Patrick (small)
    Gail Patrick
    Dale Borden
  • Lloyd Nolan (small)
    Lloyd Nolan
    Raymond Grayson
  • Harry Carey (small)
    Harry Carey
    Captain Glennan
  • J. Carrol Naish (small)
    J. Carrol Naish
    Steve Murkil
  • Robert Preston (small)
    Robert Preston
    Robert MacArthur
  • Anthony Quinn (small)
    Anthony Quinn
    Lou Gedney
  • Dennis Morgan (small)
    Dennis Morgan
    First Mate Rogers (as Richard Stanley)
  • Richard Denning (small)
    Richard Denning
    Harry Vay
  • Konstantin Shayne (small)
    Konstantin Shayne
    Murok
  • Eddie Marr (small)
    Eddie Marr
    Dave Carter
  • Emory Parnell (small)
    Emory Parnell
    Olaf