Redundant and unnecessary.

Not sure how, but this is easily one of the best movies all summer. Multiple levels of funny, never takes itself seriously, super colorful, and creative.

The movie's not perfect, but it sticks the landing of its message. It was engaging - thrilling at times - and I personally thought it was a great time.

By the time the dramatic fireworks start popping off, each one feels earned.

While this is based on some facts within Clarence Carnes life, as a TV movie, you have to remember it is a movie. I didn't think they were making heroes of anyone, as much as just telling a story, and it's a pretty good story too. Telly Savalas is menacing enough as the escaping leader of the cons. And I think the brutality they showed, showed exactly why they were sent there in the first place. And I really enjoyed ARt Carney as "Birdman" R.Stroud--they showed him more realistically doing research and writing than a lot of other movies about him.I really enjoyed Michael Beck's portrayal of C.Carnes-even though we know it was somewhat whitewashed. His early innocence being led astray and then his coming to terms with the WHY he was there was good. And his character's learning his way around the prison system was good, and the fact that he survived 18 years in Alcatraz is a story worth watching. Alex Carras did an interesting portrayal of the Assoc. Warden, and I think that in that time period--I don't think they overplayed the brutality of the Alcatraz system either. This was the LAST STOP!! I enjoyed this miniseries movie, and I thought the actors did a good job with the material.

I have to agree that this is truly "the best Alcatraz movie ever made." The film follows the prison life of young Clarence Carnes played perfectly by Michael Beck(The Warriors, Triumphs of a Man Called Horse)who gives an outstanding performance. I was lucky enough to catch this movie on Encore's True Stories Channel. Clarence Carnes was the youngest man sent to Alcatraz and carried with him a record of trying to escape every jail he's ever been in. His character manages to show different emotions allowing the audience to truly feel for him. He never loses hope of escaping and proves that he's smart enough to pull it off if he wanted to. As years go by, he gains more and more respect and recognition. Art Carney(The Honeymooners) contributes greatly to the supporting cast offering memorable dialogue with Beck. If you have never seen this movie or want to see it again, be on the look out for some familiar faces, Joe Pantoliano, G.W. Bailey, and many others. The story is captivating and truly moving.I was two years old when this movie first came out and I saw if for the second time a few months ago. The tale of hope and the power of knowledge is timeless. If you want to see an Alcatraz movie worthy of the highest rating, this is it, "Alcatraz - The Whole Shocking Story."

This is a very entertaining film, with great direction. Very interesting action and characters. When you consider that this is a tv movie, it makes it even more amazing. It's hard to believe that a 20 year old made for TV movie can be so much better than most of the stuff hollywood is putting out these days. Definately watch (and record)this if it comes on tv. And whoever owns the rights to this, release it on DVD letterboxed, ss-dl.

This is my favorite Alcatraz movie of all time and I've seen them all! Too bad it is only made for TV and you can't buy it in stores. This is the real deal. Nice and long and involved. This movie tells the whole story of Alcatraz. Luckily I have a copy on VHS.