Is The Laughing Prisoner Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, The Laughing Prisoner is likely a skip if you enjoy TV Movie movies.
It features a runtime of 41 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
The Laughing Prisoner Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1987, The Laughing Prisoner enters the TV Movie genre with a narrative focused on A funny remake of "The Prisoner" - with a 1980's twist to it 'The Laughing Prisoner' is a remake (or homage) of (to) the Kafkaesque 1960's television show 'The Prisoner' with Patrick McGoohan in the lead role. Under the direction of Geoff Wonfor, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Terence Alexander, Stephen Fry, Jools Holland. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, The Laughing Prisoner 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, The Laughing Prisoner resonates with current cultural themes in the TV Movie 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, The Laughing Prisoner 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 The Laughing Prisoner centers on a unique premise within the TV Movie landscape. A funny remake of "The Prisoner" - with a 1980's twist to it 'The Laughing Prisoner' is a remake (or homage) of (to) the Kafkaesque 1960's television show 'The Prisoner' with Patrick McGoohan in the lead role. This time it is a successful television presenter (Jools Holland) who decides to quit at the height of his stardom. He is abducted from his apartment and brought to the village, where number 2 (a young Stephen Fry) is questioning him. The whole show has a cosy 1980's feel to it, with several bands from that period performing their music. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1987 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of The Laughing Prisoner 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 The Laughing Prisoner sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for The Laughing Prisoner (1987): with an audience rating of 3/10, the reception has been negative. It is a recommended for fans of TV Movie, Comedy cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
The Laughing Prisoner has not been officially rated yet.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 3/10, and global collection metrics, The Laughing Prisoner stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1987 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Laughing Prisoner movie hit or flop?
The Laughing Prisoner is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 3/10 and lower collections.
Is The Laughing Prisoner worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 3/10, The Laughing Prisoner may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
What genre is The Laughing Prisoner?
The Laughing Prisoner is a TV Movie, Comedy movie that A funny remake of "The Prisoner" - with a 1980's twist to it 'The Laughing Prisoner' is a remake (or homage) of (to) the Kafkaesque 1960's television ...
Explore More Verdicts
More with Terence Alexander
View full filmography
People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is The Laughing Prisoner movie hit or flop?
The Laughing Prisoner is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 3/10 and lower collections.
Is The Laughing Prisoner worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 3/10, The Laughing Prisoner may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
What genre is The Laughing Prisoner?
The Laughing Prisoner is a TV Movie, Comedy movie that A funny remake of "The Prisoner" - with a 1980's twist to it 'The Laughing Prisoner' is a remake (or homage) of (to) the Kafkaesque 1960's television ...
Is The Laughing Prisoner family friendly?
Yes, The Laughing Prisoner is suitable for family viewing as it falls under the TV Movie, Comedy genre.
Where can I watch The Laughing Prisoner?
You can find streaming options and availability for The Laughing Prisoner on popular platforms. Check movieMx for the latest updates and reviews.
Who is the main cast of The Laughing Prisoner?
The Laughing Prisoner 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 The Laughing Prisoner?
The runtime and duration of The Laughing Prisoner 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.