"The Midnight Express" is a 1978 film directed by Alan Parker, based on the true story of Billy Hayes, an American student who was arrested for attempting to smuggle hashish out of Turkey. The film depicts his harrowing experiences in a Turkish prison and the brutal conditions he faced during his incarceration. The title refers to the train that runs from Istanbul to Europe, symbolizing Hayes' desire to escape. The film highlights themes of freedom, survival, and the consequences of drug trafficking, and it received critical acclaim, winning two Academy Awards and sparking discussions about the justice system in Turkey.