
When he wasn't duking it out in the boxing ring, Roy "Pretty Boy" Shaw terrorized Britain as one of the country's most feared gangsters, as revealed in this documentary. The program chronicles Shaw's shady history, a criminal career that includes armed robbery, murder and brutal beatings. Known as the only man who ever broke his way out of two prison cells, Shaw became one of Britain's most powerful gangsters in the 1960s.
Director
Status
Released
Original Language
EN

“White Boy Rick”, as he was called, was a novelty: A white teenager seemingly running a major inner-city drug operation. In May of 1987, 17-year-old Richard Wershe Jr. was charged with a non-violent, juvenile drug offense. By the time of his arrest he was already a Detroit legend, frequently making front-page headlines and leading the local television news. In this film, gangsters, hit men, journalists and federal agents struggle to explain why he remains in prison at nearly 50 years old. The possible explanation is more stunning than the crimes Wershe was alleged to have committed.

This revealing documentary honors the legendary Sidney Poitier—iconic actor, filmmaker, and civil rights activist. Featuring interviews with Denzel Washington, Spike Lee, Halle Berry, and more.