On this day August 27, 1980, McVicar premiered in theaters. Directed by Tom Clegg, the British crime drama starred Roger Daltrey, Adam Faith, Cheryl Campbell, and Billy Murray. Based on the true story of John McVicar, the film follows the career criminal from his time in prison through his daring escape and the nationwide manhunt that followed. The story also explores how McVicar eventually changed the course of his life after years of living outside the law.
Roger Daltrey, already famous as the lead singer of The Who, received praise for his performance in the title role. The movie also featured a soundtrack written and performed by Daltrey with contributions from Pete Townshend, John Entwistle, and Kenney Jones, giving the film a strong connection to one of Britain’s greatest rock bands.
80s insight: McVicar introduced many moviegoers to the remarkable true story of John McVicar while giving Roger Daltrey one of the most memorable acting performances of his career.
