It's a one-note plot, but thanks to a thoughtful script and persuasive acting, the story works, though you may see the major twist coming. So how's young Paul (Byrnes) going to escape prison; after all, he's got a slick reputation to protect. Besides, the head guard (McNally) is one arrogant son of a gun, and keeps challenging Paul to just try to escape. Also, how's old broken-down inmate Doc (Keith) going to help since he sort of totters around.
For fans of old 77 Sunset Strip (1958-64) Byrnes' turn here comes as a revelation. Who would figure that the jive talking Kookie of that detective series could actually play a hardened criminal; still, he's quite good. Then too, judging from his frail appearance, I'm not surprised the aged Keith would soon pass away. Too bad, because he's an unusual TV presence here. Also, production did a good job faking a dead-end lumberyard that the cons labor in. This is definitely not a place to put in prison time; no wonder Paul's desperate to get out. Note too, that the cemetery markers don't bother with names, just numbers. I guess they let God sort 'em out.
And, oh yes—guys-- there's absolutely no eye candy in this 60-minutes, so be prepared for a gang of ugly screws and cons. All in all, it's a different Hitch, with the usual ironical, but not too surprising, ending.