Paul Sheldon used to write for a living. Now, he’s writing to stay alive.
The movie 'Misery' is a gripping psychological thriller based on Stephen King's novel of the same name. The film features two main characters: Paul Sheldon, played by James Caan, and Annie Wilkes, portrayed by Kathy Bates. Paul is a successful fiction author who has just completed his latest novel, while Annie is Paul's self-proclaimed biggest fan who rescues him from a car accident and takes him to her remote Colorado home to recover.
As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Annie's obsession with Paul and his writing is anything but normal. She has a manic obsession with Paul's Misery series and is enraged when she discovers that he has killed off the main character in the latest book. In a twisted attempt to bring her beloved character back to life, Annie forces Paul to write a new Misery novel, holding him captive in her home and subjecting him to physical and psychological torture.
What follows is a tense and suspenseful game of cat and mouse between Paul and Annie, as Paul tries to outsmart his captor and escape from her clutches. Kathy Bates' portrayal of Annie Wilkes is chilling and unforgettable, earning her an Academy Award for Best Actress. The movie is a masterclass in suspenseful storytelling, with unexpected twists and turns that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. If you're a fan of psychological thrillers and Stephen King's writing, 'Misery' is a must-watch.
Full Cast of Misery
James Caan
as Paul Sheldon
James Caan's portrayal of Paul Sheldon in 'Misery' is a masterclass in acting. He brilliantly captures the terror, desperation, and eventual defiance of a man held captive by his self-proclaimed "number one fan." Caan's performance is a study in contrasts, as he convincingly transitions from a helpless victim to a determined survivor, all while maintaining a sense of vulnerability that keeps the audience rooting for him. His chemistry with Kathy Bates, who plays the unhinged Annie Wilkes, is palpable, and their scenes together are some of the most intense and memorable in the film. Overall, Caan's performance is a standout in a career full of great roles.
Kathy Bates
as Annie Wilkes
Kathy Bates's performance as Annie Wilkes in 'Misery' is nothing short of chilling and unforgettable. Bates brings the character to life with a terrifying intensity, capturing the nuances of a seemingly harmless, sweet woman who harbors a dangerous obsession. Her portrayal of Annie's descent into madness is both haunting and captivating, showcasing her incredible range as an actress. Bates's Oscar-winning performance is a testament to her talent and a standout in her impressive career.
Richard Farnsworth
as Buster
Richard Farnsworth's portrayal of Buster in 'Misery' is a subtle yet powerful performance. As the quiet, unassuming sheriff, Farnsworth brings a sense of calm and reason to the film's intense and claustrophobic atmosphere. His understated acting style perfectly complements the film's psychological tension, and his character's slow-burning determination to save James Caan's character from the clutches of Kathy Bates' Annie Wilkes is a masterclass in restraint and nuance. Farnsworth's performance is a testament to his talent as an actor, and his ability to convey a wide range of emotions with minimal dialogue is truly impressive.
Frances Sternhagen
as Virginia
Frances Sternhagen's performance as Virginia in the movie 'Misery' is a standout. She brings a sense of warmth and humanity to her character, making her a sympathetic and relatable figure. Despite her limited screen time, Sternhagen makes a lasting impression, delivering her lines with a natural ease and authenticity. Her performance adds a much-needed layer of depth to the story, providing a counterpoint to the film's more intense and unsettling moments. Overall, Sternhagen's portrayal of Virginia is a testament to her talent as an actress and a valuable contribution to the film.
Lauren Bacall
as Marcia Sindell
Lauren Bacall delivers a chilling performance as Marcia Sindell in the movie 'Misery'. Although she has a relatively small role, Bacall's portrayal of the stern and unforgiving literary agent is both memorable and impactful. Her character serves as a stark contrast to the unhinged and obsessive Annie Wilkes, played by Kathy Bates. Bacall's commanding presence and sharp delivery make her a formidable force, even in the face of Wilkes' erratic behavior. Her performance adds an additional layer of tension to the already suspenseful film.
Graham Jarvis delivers a compelling performance as Libby in the movie 'Misery'. Despite having a minor role, Jarvis manages to make a lasting impression with his portrayal of the skeptical and uncooperative police officer. His interactions with James Caan's character, Paul Sheldon, showcase his ability to convey a sense of authority and disbelief, which adds to the overall tension and suspense of the film. Jarvis's performance is a testament to his talent as a character actor and his ability to bring depth to even the smallest of roles.
John Michael Quinn
as Restaurant Patron (uncredited)
Jay Dee Witney
as News Photographer (uncredited)
Crew of Misery
Discover the
backstage crew of Misery →
