Hellgate (1952)

Set amidst the tumult of the American Civil War, 'Hellgate' is a cinematic masterstroke that draws inspiration from John Ford's 1936 film, 'The Prisoner of Shark Island'. The narrative unfolds in the notorious Hellgate Prison located in the harsh terrains of New Mexico. Here, we meet the prison's pitiless warden, Union Army officer Tod Vorhees, portrayed with chilling intensity by Ward Bond. Vorhees harbors an immediate and unexplainable animosity towards the newly-arrived prisoner, Gil Hanley, a compelling character delivered by Sterling Hayden. Hanley, an innocent man wrongfully accused of espionage for the Confederacy, finds himself condemned to this hell on earth. His innocence echoes the plight of Dr. Samuel Mudd, but the injustice of his situation offers him no clemency. After a failed escape attempt, he is further sentenced to solitary confinement, where he battles not only the walls of his cell but the demons within. However, the grim walls of Hellgate are about to witness an unforeseen catastrophe. Unbeknownst to those unfamiliar with the Ford film, a deadly plague is about to descend upon the prison. As the epidemic begins to claim lives, prisoner Hanley is thrust into an unexpected role. Through this crisis, he finds an opportunity for redemption and a chance to prove his worth. 'Hellgate' is a potent blend of historical drama, gripping suspense, and a poignant human story. It promises to leave viewers riveted, as they journey with Hanley from the depths of despair to a beacon of hope.

Hellgate is a western movie featuring Ward Bond and directed by Charles Marquis Warren.

Hellgate is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Cineverse, Fandor, The Roku Channel and Tubi TV and it's also available on Amazon Prime Video and Fandor Amazon Channel.

It is also possible to buy Hellgate on Amazon Video and Vudu.