1962: Birdman of Alcatraz

You shouldn't think a film about a prisoner in solitary confinement who becomes a bird expert is all that interesting, but it's pulled off in a very professional manner: a well-structured screenplay (Guy Trosper) and no-nonsense direction (John Frankenheimer). Old Hollywood: It did have something going for itself. (7)

1960: Le trou (The Hole or The Night Watch)

Despite being in no hurry - among other things, there is a four-minute shot of people hammering away at a cell's floor - Jaques Becker's b/w film about a prison break feels quick, well-timed and disciplined, making it possibly the best in its genre. (7.5)

1920: Convict 13

Buster Keaton finds himself in a convict's uniform, and soon he's in a prison and about to be hanged. Rioting and lots of standard silent comedy jokes, in particular people falling down. Not the reason Keaton's famous. (5.5)