McVicar is a 1980 British crime drama film directed by Tom Clegg and starring Roger Daltrey, who also produced the film. The screenplay was based on the autobiographical book McVicar by John McVicar himself.
The film portrays McVicar as a young man growing up in London who becomes involved in a life of crime, including armed robbery and drug dealing. He eventually becomes Britain's "Public Enemy No. 1" and is captured and tried for his crimes. He is sentenced to life in prison and sent to the high-security prison of Durham.
McVicar finds life in prison to be extremely challenging, both physically and mentally. He has to deal with the strict rules and regulations of the prison, as well as the violent and brutal behaviour of some of the other inmates. However, McVicar is determined to escape from the prison and starts planning his breakout.
McVicar eventually manages to escape from the prison with the help of his girlfriend, Sheila Buckley. They go on the run together, but are eventually caught by the police. McVicar is sentenced to an additional 14 years in prison for his escape.
During his time in prison, McVicar starts to reflect on his life and begins to think about changing his ways. He starts studying and reading and becomes interested in philosophy. He begins to see his life of crime as pointless and destructive, and begins to think about how he can turn his life around.
McVicar eventually becomes a model prisoner and is recommended for parole. He is eventually released from prison and starts a new life, dedicating himself to helping others avoid the mistakes he made.
The film was praised for its gritty realism and accurate portrayal of life in prison. It received positive reviews from critics and was a box office success.