Is Prison Farm Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Prison Farm is likely a skip if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 67 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Prison Farm Review
Last updated: January 10, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1938, Prison Farm enters the Drama genre with a narrative focused on Shirley Ross plays an innocent young girl convicted for complicity in a crime committed by her boy friend (Lloyd Nolan). Under the direction of Louis King, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Shirley Ross, Lloyd Nolan, John Howard. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, Prison Farm offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, Prison Farm resonates with current cultural themes in the Drama space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of January 2026, Prison Farm is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US, UK, and India, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release. Don't miss the high-definition experience provided by premium large format (PLF) screenings.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of Prison Farm centers on a unique premise within the Drama landscape. Shirley Ross plays an innocent young girl convicted for complicity in a crime committed by her boy friend (Lloyd Nolan). The male crook is sentence to six months on a prison farm populated by both men and women (segregated, of course). Ross is also incarcerated, suffering the cruelties of the sadistic male and female guards (including J. Carroll Naish and future "Ma Kettle" Marjorie Main!) The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1938 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of Prison Farm has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a Prison Farm sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for Prison Farm (1938): with an audience rating of 5.7/10, the reception has been divisive. It is a recommended for fans of Drama, Crime cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Cast of Prison Farm
- Shirley Ross – Jean Forest
- Lloyd Nolan – Larry Harrison
- John Howard – Dr. Roi Conrad
- J. Carrol Naish – Noel Haskins
- Porter Hall – Chiston R. Bradby
Top Highlights
Shirley RossJean Forest
Lloyd NolanLarry Harrison
John HowardDr. Roi Conrad
J. Carrol NaishNoel Haskins
Porter HallChiston R. Bradby
Esther DaleCora Waxley
May Boley'Shifty' Sue
Marjorie MainMatron Brand
Anna Q. NilssonMatron Ames
Robert BristerJoe Easy
Parents Guide & Age Rating
Prison Farm is rated NR. Parents should be aware that it contains mature themes, violence.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.7/10, and global collection metrics, Prison Farm stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1938 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Prison Farm movie hit or flop?
Prison Farm has received mixed reviews with a 5.7/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Prison Farm worth watching?
Prison Farm is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama, Crime movies, but read reviews first.
What genre is Prison Farm?
Prison Farm is a Drama, Crime movie that Shirley Ross plays an innocent young girl convicted for complicity in a crime committed by her boy friend (Lloyd Nolan). The male crook is sentence to...
You Might Also Like
Explore More Verdicts
More with Shirley Ross
View full filmography
People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is Prison Farm movie hit or flop?
Prison Farm has received mixed reviews with a 5.7/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Prison Farm worth watching?
Prison Farm is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama, Crime movies, but read reviews first.
What genre is Prison Farm?
Prison Farm is a Drama, Crime movie that Shirley Ross plays an innocent young girl convicted for complicity in a crime committed by her boy friend (Lloyd Nolan). The male crook is sentence to...
Is Prison Farm family friendly?
Prison Farm may not be suitable for all family members as it contains Drama, Crime elements. Parental guidance is recommended.
Where can I watch Prison Farm?
You can find streaming options and availability for Prison Farm on popular platforms. Check movieMx for the latest updates and reviews.
Who is the main cast of Prison Farm?
Prison Farm features a talented cast. Check our "Top Cast" section to see the full list of actors and the characters they play in this film.
How long is the movie Prison Farm?
The runtime and duration of Prison Farm are available in the movie details section. It's a gripping story that keeps you engaged from start to finish.
Critic Reviews
No reviews found for this filter.