Notorious prisoner Robert Franklin Stroud is transferred to Leavenworth Prison in 1912 after being convicted of murder. He becomes violent after his mother's visit is canceled and kills a guard, leading to multiple trials. Despite being sentenced to death, his sentence is commuted to life in prison by President Woodrow Wilson after his mother's appeal. Stroud spends the rest of his life in solitary confinement, but finds solace in raising a sparrow and later, birds. This newfound passion leads him to become an expert in ornithology and he even starts a business with his wife. However, he is eventually transferred to Alcatraz, forcing him to leave his beloved birds behind.

Birdman of Alcatraz
A former prisoner finds redemption and a sense of belonging through his love of birds, ultimately becoming a renowned expert in the field.