‘Flat out brilliant’ Stephen King adaptation leaves iPlayer in days | Films | Entertainment

Starring James Caan and Kathy Bates, the 1990 release boasts an impressive 90 per cent audience rating, whilst critics have awarded it a generous 86 per cent score. It has even been hailed by fans as “the best horror film of all time.”

Misery tells the chilling tale of romance novelist Paul Sheldon (Caan), who, following a severe car accident, finds himself under the care of former nurse Annie Wilkes (Bates).

It just so happens she is a superfan of his work, and upon discovering Paul’s intention to kill off one of her favourite characters, Annie decides to hold him captive. She subjects her once-adored author to torture in an attempt to alter the narrative, reports the Mirror.

Meanwhile, Paul endeavours to escape her home, despite becoming virtually immobile due to one of Annie’s particularly gruesome torture techniques, immortalised in a now infamous scene.

The title is currently available for streaming on BBC iPlayer entirely free of charge. However, potential viewers must act swiftly as there are only a few days left to watch it on the platform. It is slated for removal on March 31.

“One of the best King movie adaptations. A great film to watch annually in the winter,” one viewer shared.

Another added: “This movie is flat-out brilliant. Easily one of the best psychological horror flicks I’ve ever seen right up there with Psycho and The Shining. Kathy Bates? Absolutely phenomenal. If you love thrillers, you have to watch this.”

A third gushed: “I don’t think I have ever been that anxious watching a film. The films totally works in his psychological horror aspect.”

Meanwhile a fourth said: “This is one of my favourite horror movies. I simply must see it again. The tension you feel is so real when you watch it.”

The acclaimed adaptation was directed by the late Rob Reiner, who at that point was primarily recognised for his comedy work including This Is Spinal Tap and When Harry Met Sally. Those unable to catch it whilst free can alternatively stream it on Prime Video with a subscription.

Misery is available to stream on BBC iPlayer until March 31. For the latest showbiz, TV, movie and streaming news, go to the new ** Everything Gossip ** website.