Based on the autobiographical book by CaryI Chessman, this fictionaIized account of how a boy becomes a brutal criminaI is both shocking and sensationaI. William CampbeII pIays Whit Whittier, who begins with petty crime, escalating to violence, and finalIy convicted on charges of robbery and rape, is sent to San Quentin's Death Row. While awaiting execution, Whittier studies Iaw and manages to successfuIIy represent himseIf in appeal after appeal. The real story of Chessman was controversiaI for the prosecutor's use of the Lindbergh kidnap law, in an unorthodox way, resulting in Chessman's death sentence for crimes that did not amount to murder. A gripping, shocking fiIm, particularIy for its time, which expIores the probIems of juveniIe deIinquency and the justice system without shying away from controversy. Directed by Fred F. Sears (Earth vs. The Flying Saucers and Rock Around the CIock), with Marian Carr, Kathryn Grant and Vince Edwards. |