Arkadin Posted January 23, 2008 Share Posted January 23, 2008 I know everyone is geared up for tomorrow's showing of NIGHTFALL, but don't miss this grandaddy of prison talkies showing beforehand. A great film that TCM usually only shows once a year, if that often. Spend a few hours with the boys in stir--you'll be glad you did. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Film_Fatale Posted January 23, 2008 Share Posted January 23, 2008 I'm definitely recording both movies! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Posted January 23, 2008 Share Posted January 23, 2008 I saw THE BIG HOUSE ages ago and was really impressed... good cast and quite gritty for an MGM film Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
markbeckuaf Posted January 23, 2008 Share Posted January 23, 2008 I've seen it several times, but always have to check out this prison film from 1930! It rocks!!! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
scottman1932 Posted January 23, 2008 Share Posted January 23, 2008 An excellent film. Very advanced for an early talkie. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nicki82 Posted January 25, 2008 Share Posted January 25, 2008 What a awesome movie. Yesterday was the first time I ever saw this film, and I have to say that I liked it alot. I love good gritty crime/prison movie. It gives yet another reason to admire Wallace Beery's acting skills. I love the prison riot scene , especially Wallace Beery with a Tommy gun. And as a fan of Art Deco, I loved how the Art Deco style prison gave off an imprisoned feeling. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
OllieTSB Posted January 25, 2008 Share Posted January 25, 2008 I enjoyed this film perhaps even more because of the many technical weaknesses, strangely enough. Despite stagey or wooden acting, despite the often mis-timed replies or slow reaction to the "ACTION!" command from the director, the story and good characters made this film rise above its technical weaknesses. Very impressive. Has anyone seen any of the Silent Prison films and can they judge those against THE BIG HOUSE or other, later prison films? For me, THE BIG HOUSE sets a great standard for all others to follow. Another big THANK YOU, TCM. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
InFlynn Posted January 26, 2008 Share Posted January 26, 2008 Wallace Beery was excellent but Robert Montgomery also gave a fine performance. You had to feel sorry for him in the beginning and despise him later on. I think that he acted his part very well. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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