Kind of literally here, considering where our main characters find themselves in. This is well told and has all the right twists it needs to have. And a central character that is so easy to manipulate - it is fun to watch him squeal and turn. Because it is a movie of course. If you even think about real life and what that would mean and all that - well you would ruin the movie for yourself.

There is also a sense of machism and violence you may not entirely agree with (which would be a good thing),but don't forget: this is a movie and the time this was made was different. Sensibilities and all that stuff. The drama and the thriller aspects work hand in hand - in a good way ... leading the way that is, no pun intended.

Certainly not one of Manfredi's best movie, it's the rather depressing story of four inmates who plan their escape in a way similar to "Shawshank Redemption" but with less glorified results.

Everything about the movie screams out "poverty" and the rather miserable life of the lower classes, from sordid environments (even the prison is a dump) to dreadful relationships.

There is some attempt at humor but it sorts of falls flat. However, the actors do a good job, as it was to be expected by real professionals.

Of course I love Nino Manfredi, but Volonte I love him more (due to the roles after this film). But here Manfredi is the best of all the other actors (thanks to his generous role),followed by Mario Adorf. Luigi Comencini did a an extraordinary job with this movie. Manfredi is also singing a song, very impressive.