Based loosely on the life of ex-convict Rick Cluchey, Nick Nolte stars as Lee Umtetter, an armed robbery (and more) convict with a life sentence, who becomes despondent over the prospect of never seeing the outside again and tries, not once, but twice, to take his own life — a death fall from the upper level (broken arm) and a failed attempt at hanging himself.
He starts reading books and by chance he attends a convict-produced play (Beckett’s “Waiting for Godot”) and becomes inspired to write one his own. Lillian, a local drama critic, hears of the Umtetter’s efforts, comes to the play and falls in love with both the play and the author. Thought her efforts he is able to gain a parole.
His plan, once on the outside, is to assemble members of the cast — former cons like himself — and take the production on the road. It’s a mixed bag, but he does manage to get a San Francisco date … and then with a beat-up motorhome the “gang” hits the road, with stops in the Midwest before getting an Off-Broadway venue!
Nolte, to prepare for the role, drew upon his own life experiences and visits to San Quentin.
Bonus nuggets included with MVD’s “Marquee Collection” edition of Weeds on Oct. 14 are a new video session with filmmaker John Hancock and his 1971 Oscar-nominated short film titled Sticky My Fingers … Fleet My Feet.
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