The chilling psychological thriller 'Misery', based on Stephen King's novel and winner of an Academy Award, has arrived for streaming on Amazon Prime Video in the UK. This landmark film, directed by the late Rob Reiner, is celebrated as one of the finest adaptations of King's work.
A Tale of Obsession and Terror
The plot centres on successful novelist Paul Sheldon, played by James Caan. After a severe car crash in a remote area, he is rescued by his self-proclaimed "number one fan," former nurse Annie Wilkes, portrayed by Kathy Bates. She takes him to her isolated cabin to recuperate, but her care turns to captivity and violence when she discovers Paul's plans to kill off her favourite literary character.
Upon its release, the film was a major commercial and critical success. It earned a staggering $61.3 million (approximately £45.5 million) at the global box office. Its most notable achievement was securing Kathy Bates the Academy Award for Best Actress, making 'Misery' the only film adapted from a Stephen King novel to ever win an Oscar.
Enduring Critical Acclaim
The film maintains an impressive 91% rating on the review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes. Critics consistently praise its tight, frightening narrative and the powerhouse performances of its leads.
TIME Magazine hailed it as a peak of popular filmmaking, stating it was "elegantly economical, artlessly artful." Empire celebrated director Rob Reiner's versatility, noting he could "turn his hand to virtually anything." The praise for Bates's performance was universal, with The Times highlighting the "delicate balance that can tip without warning from sweetly cheerful to psychotic rage."
A Bittersweet Arrival on Streaming
The film's addition to Amazon Prime follows the tragic deaths of director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, in 2025. The couple was found deceased in their Los Angeles home in a case ruled a homicide. Their son was later charged with murder.
In a tribute, Kathy Bates credited Reiner with changing her life by casting her in the iconic role. "I loved Rob. He was brilliant and kind," she said. "He changed the course of my life." She also remembered Michele as a "gifted photographer" who shot the promotional images for the 'Misery' campaign.
With its legacy as a box office hit, an award-winner, and a masterclass in suspense, 'Misery' is now available to stream on Amazon Prime Video, offering a new generation the chance to experience its harrowing and unforgettable story.
