What happens when America's most notorious prison hosts an 'alumni' reunion?
Calling All Cons! Calling All Cons! With the 70th Anniversary of Alcatraz Penitentiary fast approaching, National Park Service Ranger John Cantwell is inviting every ex-Alcatraz inmate - and their former cellhouse guards - back to the Rock for an "Alcatraz Alumni Gathering." (And you thought your family reunion was dysfunctional!)
Intrigued by this most unlikely of reunions, filmmaker John Paget travels the continent to find the few known surviving ex-prisoners of Alcatraz. They were once America's most dangerous public enemies - but who and where are they now?
Against the backdrop of these colorful characters and their imminent rendezvous, ALCATRAZ REUNION traces the history of the iconic island, and its mysterious transformation from notorious prison to tourist mecca. Once this tale holds you captive, there is no escape!
Features commentary from legendary San Francisco Chronicle reporter Carl Nolte and the heartwarming story of 'the Alcatraz priest' Father Bernie Bush.
Review Excerpt from Video Librarian:
"While the reunion is a weird event to say the least, there is nevertheless the sense that for some (who describe Alcatraz as a unique hellhole) to return as free men is liberating. Combining rare archival footage and illuminating interviews with ex-cons who have not forgotten their terrible years in confinement, Alcatraz Reunion is another interesting offbeat documentary from the director of Almost Elvis."
Packed with extra scenes and bonus features, including three vintage newsreels on greatest moments in the history of Alcatraz!
75 Minutes | Collector's Edition Digipak DVD