Prison (1987): cast, story & where to watch

1987 · Film · ★ 5.8

Prison poster

Released in 1987, Prison is a thriller, drama, crime and horror film directed by Renny Harlin, running about 102 minutes. “Horror has a new home.” — that tagline sets the tone.

What it’s about. After Charles Forsyth was sent to the electric chair for a crime he didn't commit, he forever haunts the prison where he was executed. Flash forward several years when the prison is reopened, under the control of its new warden Eaton Sharpe, a former security guard who framed Charlie. When prisoners are ordered to break down the wall to the execution room, they unknowingly release the angry spirit of Charles Forsyth, a powerful being distributing his murderous rage to all, leading up to the Warden himself.

Who’s in it. Prison stars Viggo Mortensen as Burke / Forsythe Electrocution, Chelsea Field as Katherine Walker, Lane Smith as Warden Eaton Sharpe and Lincoln Kilpatrick as Cresus, among others.

How it landed. With an audience score of 5.8/10, Prison has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response. It went on to earn $354.7K at the box office.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Prison page.

If you liked it. Fans of Prison tend to enjoy The Dark Knight, Pulp Fiction, Parasite and Fight Club.

Frequently asked

Where can I watch Prison (1987)?
Streaming, rental and purchase options for Prison change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
Is Prison worth watching?
Prison holds an audience score of 5.8 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy thriller, drama, crime and horror. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
Who stars in Prison?
Prison stars Viggo Mortensen, Chelsea Field, Lane Smith, Lincoln Kilpatrick and Tom Everett.
When was Prison released?
Prison was released in 1987, with a runtime of about 102 minutes.