The title of Convicts 4 (1962) is odd because it’s really the true-life tail of one convict, played by Ben Gazzara, who develops into a fine artist while in prison. It’s based on the autobiography of John Resko, who was sentenced to death for a killing during a robbery; his sentence was commuted, and he developed his skills as a painter in prison, contributing to his eventual release.
Now Convicts 4 is not a masterpiece: some of the scenes are contrived, the dialogue is often stiff and there are some overwrought moments, especially the pre-execution shower and the wintertime escape attempt. interesting story. But it’s pretty entertaining because of the real-life story and the compelling performance by Ben Gazzara – at the height of his charisma.
Resko/Gazzara does have a set of cronies while in the Big House. There’s a particularly unforgettable turn by one of my favorite movie psychos, Timothy Carey, here in one of his most eccentrically self-conscious performances. Ray Walton (My Favorite Martian) plays another loony prisoner, crazier than Carey’s, but not a menacing. The rich cast includes Stuart Whitman, Vincent Price, Rod Steiger, Jack Albertson, Brodrick Crawford and Sammy Davis Jr.
Turner Classic Movies will air Convicts 4 on October 25.