Movie Reviews : ‘Prison’ Puts Supernatural Behind Bars, Viewer to Sleep

“Prison” (citywide) is a long-term sentence. It’s not that this yarn of a spirit loose in a maximum security lockup is without merit. But the premise has been stretched beyond any reasonable expectation. Ideally, and thematically, the film fits snugly into a “Twilight Zone” slot.

The opening prologue recalls the last electrocution at the Wyoming State Penitentiary back in 1964. The old prison has been closed for 20 years but in the wake of budget cuts, it’s about to be reopened.

Warden Sharpe (Lane Smith), who assumes command in the style of Captain Queeg, senses that something is amiss. The trouble begins when he gives the order to unseal the old execution chamber. A flash of light, an electrical power surge and several dead inmates later, everyone but the warden gets the picture. Ignoring the dark truth floating through his corridors, he searches out a human explanation for the eerie occurrences that plague the institution.

To have a real appreciation for this film, it’s necessary to be as blind as the warden. If the tormented spirit truly wants revenge, then one wonders why he’s so casual about effecting it quickly. Why indeed do so many innocent victims have to suffer for the sins of others?

Logic, of course, has no place in the supernatural. Director Renny Harlin understands that a good shock effect can readily erase most plot conundrums. His best diversion involves some bales of barbed wire and a neat levitation trick.

Technically, and on a performance level, “Prison” (MPAA-rated: R, for graphic violence and language) earns time off for good behavior. However, the story feels as if it was conceived by someone working with an expired artistic license.