Why Escape at Dannemora deserves its 12 Emmy nominations

Showtime’s superb limited series Escape at Dannemora is nominated for 12 Emmy awards. Here is why Show Snob believes it is such a well-made and watchable show.

Here at Show Snob we only review critically acclaimed television and online material – that’s our modus operandi. That said, it is a pleasure to introduce you to a truly wonderful production such as Escape at Dannemora.

IMDb’s short synopsis of the show is concise, yet does no justice to this piece of cinematic excellence:

"An employee at a prison in upstate New York becomes romantically involved with a pair of inmates and helps them escape"

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Showrunner Brett Johnson more eloquently describes the show at concept stage in a Deadline report:

"“We’re going to make a limited series — this is a movie-star vehicle”"

There are so many elements which make this show so watchable and technically great, not just the accurate ‘movie star’ factor. Let’s run through the reasons it has 12 Emmy nods.

Technical mastery

For a depiction of what at times can be unnerving as well as troubling – without giving too much away – Escape at Dannemora has a previously mentioned silver screen quality. In fact, retrospective cinema screenings would be appropriate; and would encompass its viewers more vividly.

What I am getting at is the smoothness of this show which has, contrastingly, a rather terrible subject matter. A gloss is evident; though capturing the conflicting grime and desperation of prison is a triumphantly achieved.

All key areas of Escape’s mise en scène show everything in authentic majesty. I regularly mention crane shots and a large area of scope in the best productions – that is abundant here. Elements which have been recognised by other prestigious organizations

Award nominations:

Outstanding Writing for a Limited Series, Movie or a Dramatic Special: Brett Johnson, Michael Tolkin and Jerry Stahl.

Production’s attention to detail

Filming on location at Western Penitentiary in Pittsburgh, PA was a great decision. Although the production couldn’t be staged at Clinton Correctional Facility because it is functional. Western is Gothic in feel and perfectly sprawling; it was temporarily closed at the time of filming.

Many guards who served in the events behind the story can be seen as extras – adding to the expertly layered scenes. Excitement often comes from realistic conditions within the genre of ‘based on a true story.’

Ben Stiller is a surprise inclusion when you first see his named credited as director. However, I find comedic actors have a dark and quiet side often best exploited in a drama such as this with little humorous relief.

Award nominations:

Outstanding Directing for a Limited Series, Movie or a Dramatic Special: Ben Stiller.

Outstanding Limited Series.

Outstanding Production Design for a Narrative Contemporary Program (One Hour or More): Mark Ricker, James F. Truesdale, Cherish M. Hale.

Outstanding Music Composition for a Limited Series, Movie, or Special (Original Dramatic Score): Edward Shearmur.

An ensemble cast

Much has been said about the A-listers, and former, recovering A-list talent attached to this TV show – and they do not disappoint. It’ll be a travesty if Patricia Arquette doesn’t win the best actress gong.

Paul Dano is moving in everything he is involved in: from The Sopranos; to There Will Be Blood; and a marvelous turn in Love and Mercy.

While Benicio Del Toro also consistently captivates, Escape is no different. Watch Snatch and Savages to witness my favourite performances of his.

Every backing role, especially Eric Lange, should be noted as impeccable. Lange was arguably the most impressive performer.

Award nominations:

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or Movie: Del Toro.

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series or Movie: Arquette.

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series or Movie: Dano.

Outstanding Casting for a Limited Series, Movie or Special: Rachel Tenner.

Thanks once again to IMDb for the lists.

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Watch the 71st Primetime Emmy Awards on Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019.

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