Escape by Night 1937
"A blast of drama when a city mob hides out in the country!"
Escape by Night (1937) delivers a snappy, pre-Code crime caper set against the stark contrast of city crooks hiding out in rural simplicity.
Director: Hamilton MacFadden
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Escape by Night (1937) about?
The film follows a gang of Runyonesque crooks on the run who hide out on a blind farmer's rural property. Torn between their criminal past and the promise of a straight life, the fugitives face a moral reckoning as they navigate the quiet farm's peaceful routines.
Who directed Escape by Night?
Escape by Night was directed by Hamilton MacFadden, who brought a sharp eye for character-driven storytelling to this pre-Code crime drama.
Who stars in Escape by Night?
The film stars William Hall, Anne Nagel, Dean Jagger, Steffi Duna, and Ward Bond, with Murray Alper rounding out the main cast.
Is Escape by Night (1937) worth watching?
Though unrated, Escape by Night offers a compelling snapshot of pre-Code crime films, blending sharp dialogue with moral dilemmas. Fans of Runyonesque tales or classic action dramas will find its 72-minute runtime a satisfying dive into gritty redemption.
How long is Escape by Night?
Escape by Night runs for 72 minutes.
About Escape by Night (1937) — Pre-Code crime drama with a twist on the run from the law
Escape by Night (1937) delivers a snappy, pre-Code crime caper set against the stark contrast of city crooks hiding out in rural simplicity. Directed by Hamilton MacFadden with a keen eye for character-driven tension, this 72-minute action drama follows a motley gang of Runyonesque outlaws who flee their urban pursuits to take refuge on a blind farmer's quiet plot of land. With their criminal instincts clashing against the farm's wholesome rhythms, the fugitives face an unexpected choice: cling to their old ways or embrace redemption. MacFadden crafts a world where gritty personalities collide with pastoral innocence, blending sharp dialogue with suspenseful pacing.
Anne Nagel and William Hall anchor the ensemble cast as the story's moral fulcrum, their performances heightened by the presence of Dean Jagger and Ward Bond in supporting roles. Steffi Duna adds a touch of exotic charm while Murray Alper grounds the tale in earthy realism. The film's central theme—of second chances and the blurred line between villainy and virtue—resonates in every scene, wrapped in a tone that balances cynicism with unexpected warmth.