The Escape Artist Poster

The Escape Artist 1982

★ 6.219 votes94 min📅 1982-05-28

"The remarkable story of an unusual boy who takes on the world...and wins."

Directed by Caleb Deschanel and set against a vibrant vaudeville backdrop, *The Escape Artist (1982)* follows the audacious Danny, a charismatic young boy who dares to outsmart the system itself.

Director: Caleb Deschanel

Cast

Raúl Juliá
Raúl Juliá
Stu Quiñones
Griffin O'Neal
Griffin O'Neal
Danny Masters
Desi Arnaz
Desi Arnaz
Mayor Leon Quiñones
Teri Garr
Teri Garr
Arlene
Joan Hackett
Joan Hackett
Aunt Sibyl
Gabriel Dell
Gabriel Dell
Uncle Burke
John P. Ryan
John P. Ryan
Vernon
E. G. Daily
E. G. Daily
Sandra
M. Emmet Walsh
M. Emmet Walsh
Fritz
Jackie Coogan
Jackie Coogan
Magic Shop Owner

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Escape Artist (1982) about?

The film centers on Danny, a confident boy who claims he can break out of prison in an hour. His boastful challenge unfolds through a flashback to his childhood, where he lived with his unconventional vaudeville-performing uncle and aunt. Their colorful lives teach him the art of deception—and how to turn the tables on authority.

Who directed The Escape Artist?

Caleb Deschanel, known for his work in visual storytelling, directed *The Escape Artist*. His direction infuses the film with a mix of warmth and playful tension.

Who stars in The Escape Artist?

The cast includes Raúl Juliá as Danny's uncle, Griffin O'Neal in the title role, Teri Garr as the boy's aunt, and Desi Arnaz in a supporting part.

Is The Escape Artist (1982) worth watching?

While it doesn't have an IMDb rating to gauge reception, *The Escape Artist* shines as a lighthearted yet clever comedy-drama with a nostalgic twist. Fans of family dramas and vaudeville-era stories will appreciate its charm and understated humor, even if it's not a household name today.

How long is The Escape Artist?

The Escape Artist runs for 94 minutes, perfect for a cozy, engaging viewing experience.

🎥 Trailer

About The Escape Artist (1982) — A Clever Boy's Wild Escape from Page to Stage

Directed by Caleb Deschanel and set against a vibrant vaudeville backdrop, *The Escape Artist (1982)* follows the audacious Danny, a charismatic young boy who dares to outsmart the system itself. After boldly boasting to police that he can break out of prison in under an hour, the film unravels his childhood with his eccentric uncle and aunt, who perform in the dazzling world of stage magic. Blending sharp wit with light-hearted crime, this comedy-drama explores themes of youthful defiance, the power of illusion, and the thin line between fantasy and reality.

The story unfolds with a playful yet clever narrative, where Danny's charm and quick thinking turn every situation into a game of cat-and-mouse. Griffin O'Neal shines as the fearless protagonist, backed by Raúl Juliá's magnetic performance as his uncle and a supporting cast that brings old Hollywood charm to life. With its breezy runtime and nostalgic setting, *The Escape Artist* offers a delightful mix of mischief and heart, making it a hidden gem from the early '80s.