Stuff You Should Know

How the Escape from Alcatraz Worked

Sep 1, 2020
In 1962, three criminals pulled off one of the most legendary escapes from Alcatraz, leaving behind a tapestry of myths and unanswered questions. The intricacies of their plan involved creative ingenuity, from crafting rafts out of raincoats to designing clever decoys. They became folk heroes, with speculation lingering about their possible survival even today. The discussion delves into various theories, including a mysterious letter from Brazil, and touches on the cultural fascination that surrounds their daring getaway.
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ANECDOTE

Wilder's Willy Wonka Trick

  • Gene Wilder intentionally did a somersault in Willy Wonka.
  • He wanted the audience to distrust his character from the start.
ANECDOTE

Folk Heroes

  • The Anglin brothers and Frank Morris became folk heroes after their Alcatraz escape.
  • Chuck remembers enjoying the movie "Escape from Alcatraz" as a child.
INSIGHT

Criminals as Heroes

  • The escapees' folk hero status stems from their daring escape and non-violent crimes.
  • Their crimes, robbery and drug trafficking, are seen as less heinous than violence.
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