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Cast: Frank Harper, James D'Arcy, Kate Magowan, Noel Clarke
When a soldier returns from Iraq and takes a job as a prison guard, he quickly realizes that the only thing distinguishing the prisoners from the screws (British slang for guard) is who holds the key. Based on the bestselling book and the real-life experiences of Ronnie Thompson who spent seven years working in some of England s toughest prisons Screwed is an eye-opening exposé of the corrupt underworld of prison guards ... A dark realm where brutality, gang affiliations, drug trafficking and big pay-offs rule. But ultimately, being on the right side of the bars doesn't always mean sticking to the rules.
Based on the semi-autobiographical book of the same name, "Screwed" is a prison drama chalk full of brutally. The guards in the prison prove to be even worse than those behind the bars. Marine Sam Norwood just back from Iraq can't seem to find work so against his better judgement he takes a job as a prison guard. Sam quickly learns the ropes as well as the heavy partying his fellow workers do every evening but it begins to take a toll on his wife and child.
James D'Arcy is exceptional as the new guard and Frank Harper gives as great performance as well as Deano. The rest of the supporting cast also did a fine job in the film. Director, Reg Traviss keeps the film moving at a nice pace and the scenes of violence are very well done and very realistic.
If the film has any downfalls it would be that it seems to jump around a bit too much, perhaps a little more editing might of made the film better. Plus there isn't a lot here that you haven't already seen in other prison flicks but over-all this is a pretty effective thriller with a good amount of drama and action. I don't think "Screwed" deserves to be mentioned among some of the best of it's kind but it is an entertaining film that will keep you glued to the screen the entire time.
Available on DVD, it comes with the film's trailer. You can order the DVD HERE.
The good definitely outweighs the bad here so if you like a good prison flick then I recommend checking this one out.
Released by Inception Media Group
*** 1/2 Out Of *****