Common Sense Media Review
Gripping tale of manipulation has cursing, violence.
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Misery
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 26 parent reviews
Based on 105 kid reviews
Kids say this movie is a gripping psychological thriller with strong performances, particularly from Kathy Bates, but it contains significant violence and intense scenes, making it unsuitable for younger viewers. The story revolves around an author held captive by an obsessive fan, incorporating themes of manipulation and survival amidst moderate swearing and occasional drug use, with particular emphasis on the infamous sledgehammer "hobbling" scene.
- strong performances
- intense violence
- psychological thriller
- unsuitable for younger viewers
- manipulation themes
- contained profanity
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
Based on Stephen King's novel of the same name, MISERY details the unfortunate exploits of a romance novelist (James Caan) and his obsessively sadistic "number one fan," Annie Wilkes (Kathy Bates). Upon rescuing the writer from a snowy car crash, Wilkes uses extreme measures to keep the object of her admiration at arm's length.
Is It Any Good?
Powerfully filmed, Misery grips the audience and presents a fascinating character study in psychosis. The truly in-your-face violence may prove to be too much for many adults and teens alike. Don'tt let the credits lure you into a false sense of security. Despite the inclusion of seemingly family-friendly names such as Rob Reiner (Stand by Me, The Princess Bride) and Kathy Bates (Fried Green Tomatoes, Primary Colors), you will find no warm fuzzy moments in this film as the story is filled with physical and emotional torture (including one of the most wince-worthy moments of film.)
The film presents a sadistic story of manipulation and torture as Annie struggles to preserve her favorite literary character by torturing its creator. Misery reeks with tension and suspense from beginning to end, as the fate of the writer appears darker and darker. Ultimately, the film culminates in a gruesome battle of wits and will. Watch out for the "hobbling" scene. Nonetheless, Misery did bring Bates critical acclaim and her first Oscar. The film also includes charming performances by Richard Farnsworth and Frances Sternhagen as the small-town sheriff and deputy.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how they feel about the violence in the movie. They can also use the movie as a basis for discussing safety and protecting themselves from strangers.
How does this compare with other movie adaptations of Stephen King's novels?
How is Annie revealed to be mentally and emotionally disturbed? How is she made into a fully-developed character rather than just a one-dimensional murderer like in other horror movies?
Movie Details
- In theaters : November 30, 1990
- On DVD or streaming : December 22, 1998
- Cast : James Caan , Kathy Bates , Lauren Bacall
- Director : Rob Reiner
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Polygram
- Genre : Thriller
- Topics : Arts , Book Characters , Competition , Fantasy ( Monsters )
- Run time : 107 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : strong violence
- Last updated : September 7, 2025
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