Brawl in Cell Block 99

About Brawl in Cell Block 99

Brawl in Cell Block 99 is a 2017 American action thriller film written and directed by S. Craig Zahler. The plot revolves around Bradley Thomas, a former boxer-turned-auto mechanic, who loses his job and finds himself involved in a drug deal that goes horribly wrong. As a result, he ends up in prison where he is forced to fight the battles of a phantasmagoric jailhouse.

Making / Production

The film was produced by Assemble Media, Cinestate, and IMG Films. The writing and direction were handled by S. Craig Zahler, who is known for his unique filmmaking style combining elements of violence and dark humor.

Actors

• Vince Vaughn as Bradley Thomas: Vaughn, playing against type, delivers a brilliantly soulful performance as the tough but principled former boxer.
• Jennifer Carpenter as Lauren Thomas: Carpenter plays the concerned and pregnant wife of Bradley. Her performance adds a layer of emotional depth to the movie.
• Don Johnson as Warden Tuggs: Johnson steals the show as the ultimate antagonist, the cold and brutal warden.
• Udo Kier as Placid Man: Kier gives an intense performance as the mysterious man pulling the strings behind Bradley’s prison fights.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The movie was filmed in Staten Island, New York despite taking place in various locations throughout the United States.
• Vince Vaughn underwent a significant physical transformation for the role by gaining 15 pounds of muscle.
• The film premiered at the 74th Venice International Film Festival.

Awards

The film did not win any major awards but it was well-received, with high praise for Vince Vaughn's raw and compelling performance.

Quotes

• “Every once in a while, I see a man in that chair who could just as easily be on this side of the table.” - Warden Tuggs
• "You kill my unborn child, it's worth 10 of you.” - Bradley Thomas
• “Being human is a condition which requires anesthetic.” - Placid Man

Music, Soundtrack

• The film's original score was composed by S. Craig Zahler and Jeff Herriott. The scores evoke a deep sense of discomfort and suspense.
• There is an original song performed by The O'Jays featuring Eddie Levert and Walter Williams titled 'Buddy's Business'.
• The soundtrack also includes soul songs from the seventies such as Butch Tavares's 'Give Her a Ride'.