Maze

Synopsis

Maze is a gripping 2017 Irish prison escape drama directed by Stephen Burke, starring Tom Vaughan-Lawlor. The film chronicles the real-life events surrounding the 1983 breakout from the Maze Prison in Northern Ireland, the largest prison escape in British history. It delves into the tense and turbulent political landscape of The Troubles, focusing on the personal struggles and resilience of IRA prisoners. The story highlights the strategic planning, bravery, and desperation behind the mass breakout while portraying the harsh prison conditions and the complexities of conflict during that era. Maze offers a riveting look at a pivotal moment in Ireland's history without shying away from the emotional and human aspects involved.

Cast

• 

  Tom Vaughan-Lawlor

  Larry Marley

• 

  Barry Ward

  Gordon Close

• 

  Martin McCann

  Oscar

• 

  Niamh McGrady

  Jill

• 

  Eileen Walsh

  Kate Marley

• 

  Aaron Monaghan

  Joe

Reviews

Maze received mixed reviews from critics, reflecting divided opinions on its storytelling and execution. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a 39% rating, suggesting a generally unfavorable critical consensus. Reviewers often praised the movie's tense and thrilling sequences, noting that it effectively captures the claustrophobic environment of the prison and the intensity of the escape. Tom Vaughan-Lawlor's performance was frequently highlighted as compelling and authentic. However, some critiques focused on the film's pacing, which some found uneven, and the lack of depth in character development. Brendan Kelly of The Irish Times noted that while the movie offers 'tense, gripping moments, it struggles to fully engage emotionally.' IMDb users rated Maze with an average score of 5.9/10, indicating a lukewarm reception among audiences. Metacritic scores are similarly middling, with a weighted average around 50/100, pointing to mixed or average reviews. In summary, Maze appeals primarily to viewers interested in historical dramas and real-life prison break narratives but may not satisfy those seeking a more nuanced or character-driven story.