Freeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee me! Can't you hear that's what I say. John McVicar portrays a relentless armed robber, and after being incarcerated in a maximum security prison for twenty-three years, he spends each day consumed by thoughts of escape. As his notoriety expands and alliances are formed, it seems his friend Wally Probyn might have devised a plan to break free from this strict environment. In 1979, America offered films like *The Warriors* and *The Wanderers*, while here in Britain we had *Quadrophenia* and *McVicar*, both productions of The Who Films Ltd, and both movies filled with lines that stick with a certain generation of teenagers. I’m fond of *McVicar*; truly so. Inspired by the real-life story of McVicar, based on his own writings in "McVicar by Himself," the film features a soundtrack from The Who alongside a script brimming with both humor and anger. It's true that the movie makes some criminals seem sympathetic, but it also expresses strong disapproval—and justifiable hatred—for sex offenders, while simultaneously highlighting the difficult work of the prison officers, something many online reviewers have overlooked. Roger Daltrey delivers his finest performance as McVicar, embodying a tough, well-conditioned character with an undeniable swagger that works exceptionally well here. He’s supported by excellent performances from Brian Hall (a source of constant laughter), Steven Berkoff (clearly enjoying himself immensely), Matthew Scurfield (remarkably unsettling), and Peter Jonfield. Once the escape occurs, the film shifts its tone as McVicar attempts to navigate his life afterward; it's an emotional shift that quiets the movie but successfully leads us to a very well-executed ending. We’re then given a memorable quote from John McVicar himself, along with details about what this hardened criminal ultimately did with his freedom. Perhaps my affection for the film stems from being a teenager when it was released? Or maybe the script simply resonates with me on a fundamental level? Regardless, I'll always be a fan, and *McVicar* remains, alongside *Quadrophenia* and *Scum*, a British classic that I return to year after year. I don't care how late it is I'm not going home 8/10

Source on TMDB