: The trio used a homemade raft and life vests made from raincoats, some of which were later found washed up or floating in the bay. Suggested Paper Structure

The choice of filming location was a critical decision. At the time, Alcatraz had been abandoned for over a decade and was falling into disrepair. Rather than building a studio set, the production received permission to film on the island itself. In October 1978, the crew moved onto the decaying prison and spent three and a half months shooting on location. This was a bold and risky choice, as the crumbling structure had no electricity or running water, and needed extensive renovations just to make it safe for filming.