12 Must-Watch Prison Break Movies and Shows That Will Keep You on the Edge of Your Seat

1. Escape Plan (2013)

Ray Breslin, the world's leading expert on structural security, finds himself incarcerated in a prison he designed himself after being framed. The once-creator becomes a prisoner and must now rely on his own skills to break out and find those responsible for his imprisonment. Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger deliver high-octane performances that will keep you hooked from start to finish.

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2. The Shawshank Redemption (1994)

Imprisoned in the 1940s for the double murder of his wife and her lover, banker Andy Dufresne (Tim Robbins) begins a new life at Shawshank prison, where he puts his accounting skills to use for a corrupt warden. Over time, he gains the admiration of fellow inmates—Red (Morgan Freeman) included—through his integrity and unshakeable hope. A heartwrenching tale of endurance and friendship, this film is a classic for a reason.

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3. The Great Escape (1963)

Based on a true story, 'The Great Escape' recounts one of the most ambitious jail breaks of World War II. Allied prisoners held in a high-security German POW camp refuse to let their spirits be crushed and plan a daring escape. Starring Steve McQueen, the film captures the ingenuity and indomitable spirit of those brave souls.

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4. A Prophet (2009)

Malik El Djebena, a young man sentenced to six years in prison, arrives with little knowledge of the world and unable to read or write. He quickly falls under the control of a ruthless Corsican gang. As Malik toughens up and assimilates into criminal life, he quietly plans his own rise to power. This intense, gritty film provides a raw look at the transformative, often brutal, process of survival in prison.

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5. Escape from Alcatraz (1979)

Set in the infamous Alcatraz prison, this film follows Frank Lee Morris (Clint Eastwood) as he orchestrates the most legendary escape from the "escape-proof" island. The movie's suspenseful narrative and gripping performances make it a standout in the prison break genre.

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6. Papillon (2017)

Henri "Papillon" Charrière, a safecracker framed for murder, forms an unlikely friendship with fellow inmate Louis Dega (Rami Malek) while plotting their escape from a notorious penal colony in French Guiana. The film, based on true events, explores themes of survival, resilience, and the unyielding fight for freedom.

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7. Lock Up (1989)

With just weeks left on his sentence, Frank Leone (Sylvester Stallone) is transferred to a maximum-security prison run by a vindictive warden out for revenge. Frank must navigate the dangerous prison environment to ensure he survives until his release. Expect high stakes and relentless action in this classic Stallone flick.

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8. Brubaker (1980)

Robert Redford stars as Henry Brubaker, the new warden of an Arkansas prison who goes undercover as an inmate to unveil the rampant corruption within. Once exposed, he faces immense challenges trying to reform the broken system. A compelling narrative of justice and integrity, 'Brubaker' is a must-watch.

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9. Prison Break (2005)

When a man is wrongly sentenced to death, his brother hatches an elaborate plan to intentionally get imprisoned in the same facility to break them both out. This TV series became a cultural phenomenon for its clever plot twists and intense drama, capturing the essence of a high-stakes escape at every turn.

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10. Orange Is the New Black (2013)

Following New Yorker Piper Chapman as she serves time in a women's prison for a crime committed in her youth, 'Orange Is the New Black' dives into themes of friendship, loyalty, and the harsh realities of prison life. The diverse characters and their intertwining stories make this series both heartwarming and heart-wrenching.

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11. Oz (1997)

This groundbreaking series takes a raw and unfiltered look at life inside the Oswald Maximum Security Correctional Facility. Focusing on Emerald City, an experimental unit, 'Oz' highlights the alliances and conflicts among the prison's diverse groups. The show's unflinching portrayal of violence and humanity sets it apart.

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12. Wentworth (2013)

'Wentworth' is a modern reimagining of the classic series 'Prisoner,' focusing on Bea Smith as she navigates life behind bars awaiting trial for her husband’s attempted murder. The series delves deeply into the brutal and complex social hierarchy within the prison walls, making it a gripping watch.

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13. Escape at Dannemora (2018)

Based on a real-life prison break, this limited series details the escape of two convicted murderers from a New York State prison. With the help of a female prison employee, who became romantically involved with them, they pull off the audacious escape that ignited a massive state-wide manhunt.

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14. Money Heist (2017)

This Spanish series follows a mastermind called "The Professor," who recruits eight skilled criminals to execute the most audacious heist in history. They lock themselves inside the Royal Mint of Spain for eleven days, contending with the police outside and the hostages within. As the plot unfolds, each character’s backstory adds layers of intrigue and emotional depth.

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Each of these films and shows captures the indefatigable human spirit amidst oppressive conditions, weaving tales of courage, ingenuity, and revolt. Whether you are looking for deeply emotional narratives or edge-of-the-seat action sequences, the thrilling world of prison breaks awaits you. Prepare to be spellbound and inspired by these incredible stories of escape and resistance.