56
Metascore
7 reviews · Provided by Metacritic.com
- 70Los Angeles TimesNoel MurrayLos Angeles TimesNoel MurrayThis procedural quality to Escape From Pretoria — combined with an accomplished cast that includes Ian Hart as the anti-apartheid prisoner most opposed to Jenkin’s plan — adds some oomph to a movie that features limited sets, a simple story and none of the Hollywood polish of The Shawshank Redemption.
- 70Film ThreatLorry KiktaFilm ThreatLorry KiktaI highly recommend this film to everyone but especially those who love biopics and prison thrillers. I think it’s important for people to learn this piece of history, and I’m glad that Francis Annan brought his interpretation of these events to an audience that might not be familiar with them.
- 60The Hollywood ReporterJohn DeForeThe Hollywood ReporterJohn DeForeStar Daniel Radcliffe will be the biggest draw here, but the pic's focus on planning and genre mechanics over personalities may limit its appeal for his fans.
- 60The Observer (UK)Wendy IdeThe Observer (UK)Wendy IdeA pacy screenplay, co-written by director Francis Annan and adapted from a book by Jenkin, rarely flags, but it’s the nervy camera, hugging the characters at hip height, the better to scrutinise each locked barrier to freedom, that most successfully builds the tension.
- 50TheWrapSimon AbramsTheWrapSimon AbramsAlmost everything that’s enjoyable about Escape From Pretoria is a variation on stuff you’ve probably seen in superior prison movies, though Radcliffe’s haunted performance is exceptionally compelling.