The Prisoner

Editor Reviews

• Zola Drummond

  Rating: 5

  5

  May 19, 2025

  A true classic of surreal and allegorical television, 'The Prisoner' stars and was co-created by Patrick McGoohan. He plays a former British secret agent who resigns and is subsequently abducted and taken to a mysterious, idyllic village from which there is no escape. The village is populated by former intelligence personnel, and everyone is known only by a number. The series follows his relentless attempts to escape and discover the identity of his captors and the enigmatic 'Number One'. It's a profound exploration of identity, control, and freedom, wrapped in a stylish, often bizarre package that influenced countless shows that followed.

• Iris Caldwell

  Rating: 5

  5

  March 27, 2025

  A British science fiction series from the 1960s. A man wakes up in a mysterious village after resigning from his top-secret government job. Known only as Number Six, he's held captive and constantly interrogated to reveal why he quit. This is more of a psychological exploration of control and identity than a traditional prison break story. The series is celebrated for its innovative storytelling, surreal atmosphere, and thought-provoking themes. The iconic line, 'I am not a number, I am a free man!' encapsulates the series' central conflict. 'The Prisoner' remains a cult classic, influencing numerous films, television shows, and video games with its unique and enigmatic vision.