Logo What's After the Movie

The Forever Prisoner 2021

This documentary explores the story of Abu Zubaydah, a man detained and held for years without formal charges. The film examines his experiences while held by the CIA and subjected to interrogation methods that have sparked considerable debate. Through his ordeal, the film raises important questions about the balance between national security, justice, and the upholding of American values in a complex and uncertain world.

This documentary explores the story of Abu Zubaydah, a man detained and held for years without formal charges. The film examines his experiences while held by the CIA and subjected to interrogation methods that have sparked considerable debate. Through his ordeal, the film raises important questions about the balance between national security, justice, and the upholding of American values in a complex and uncertain world.

Does The Forever Prisoner have end credit scenes?

No!

The Forever Prisoner does not have end credit scenes. You can leave when the credits roll.

Meet the Full Cast and Actors of The Forever Prisoner

Explore the complete cast of The Forever Prisoner, including both lead and supporting actors. Learn who plays each character, discover their past roles and achievements, and find out what makes this ensemble cast stand out in the world of film and television.


Ratings and Reviews for The Forever Prisoner

See how The Forever Prisoner is rated across major platforms like IMDb, Metacritic, and TMDb. Compare audience scores and critic reviews to understand where The Forever Prisoner stands among top-rated movies in its genre.


Echo Score

The Movie Echo Score

73

The Forever Prisoner delivers a compelling examination of post‑9/11 interrogation practices, anchored by Alex Gibney’s incisive direction. Critics note its probing questions and strong interviews, though some cite a lack of fresh detail. Viewers respond with powerful emotional reactions and praise the editing, while a few find the material familiar. The documentary’s strengths in craft and impact outweigh its occasional redundancy, resulting in a solid overall rating.

The Movie Echo Score Breakdown for The Forever Prisoner

80
Echo Score

Art & Craft

In terms of direction and editing, Gibney’s meticulous approach shapes a coherent visual narrative. Critics commend the uncompromising interview style and the film’s satisfying distillation of material, while users highlight the sharp editing and effective narration. Although some note a scarcity of new visual insight, the overall craftsmanship stands out as a key strength.

75
Echo Score

Character & Emotion

When it comes to character depth and emotional resonance, the documentary relies on interview subjects to convey personal testimonies. Critics and users alike note the devastating effect of the testimonies and the tension created by the interviewees, describing performances as powerful and affecting. The emotional weight contributes significantly to the film’s impact.

70
Echo Score

Story & Flow

The film’s narrative structure tackles the post‑9/11 interrogation saga with measured pacing. Reviewers acknowledge the importance of the questions raised but observe that the story offers limited new revelations, rendering parts feel familiar. Nonetheless, the coherent flow and focus on systemic abuse sustain audience engagement throughout.

65
Echo Score

Sensory Experience

In terms of sensory experience, the documentary presents a stark visual style paired with clear narration. While specific praise for soundtrack or sound design is scarce, users commend the effective editing and narration that enhance the gravity of the subject. The overall sensory presentation supports rather than distracts from the content.

75
Echo Score

Rewatch Factor

The documentary’s relevance and emotional intensity encourage repeat viewings, as critics highlight its eye‑opening questions and users describe it as a must‑watch that remains unsettling and informative. Though the material is familiar, the compelling interviews and strong narrative drive give it lasting appeal for those seeking deeper understanding of post‑9/11 policies.

Metacritic

75

Metascore

5.3

User Score

Rotten Tomatoes
review

80%

TOMATOMETER

review

90%

User Score

IMDb

7.4 /10

IMDb Rating

TMDB

79

%

User Score

Letterboxd

3.6

Take the Ultimate The Forever Prisoner Movie Quiz

Challenge your knowledge of The Forever Prisoner with this fun and interactive movie quiz. Test yourself on key plot points, iconic characters, hidden details, and memorable moments to see how well you really know the film.


The Forever Prisoner Quiz: Test your knowledge about the gripping narrative and characters of 'The Forever Prisoner'.

What crucial advice does the guide give to Adela when they reach foreign soil?

Full Plot Summary and Ending Explained for The Forever Prisoner

See more

Read the complete plot summary of The Forever Prisoner, including all major events, twists, and the full ending explained in detail. Explore key characters, themes, hidden meanings, and everything you need to understand the story from beginning to end.


As the story unfolds within the sun-drenched backdrop of the Mexico-US border, Adela and Juan, portrayed by Ana de la Reguera and Tenoch Huerta respectively, embark on a treacherous journey aided by a savvy young guide. Successfully traversing the perilous tunnel, they emerge on the other side, where the guide gives Adela a vital token: a card inscribed with the mysterious directive to “follow the roses” for any future assistance.

In the meantime, America grapples with the consequences of the Purge, as the New Founding Fathers of America regain control, reinstating this controversial event amidst escalating illegal immigration. As ten months pass, Adela devotes herself to mastering English while managing alongside Darius. Meanwhile, Juan impresses Caleb Tucker, the patriarch of the Tucker family, with his abilities as a ranch hand.

During a tense family dinner, discord simmers beneath the surface; Cassie’s suggestion to hire extra help for the impending arrival of her baby is met with dissent from her husband, Dylan. Adela and Juan quietly navigate the intricacies of their separate lives amidst underlying tension and prejudice.

When the dreaded Purge night arrives, Caleb discreetly offers Juan money for protection, leading to a heartfelt conversation about the growing animosity he feels due to his heritage. As night falls, both Adela and Juan seek refuge amidst the ensuing chaos following the Purge.

The subsequent morning reveals a shocking discovery as Juan and his friend TT, played by Alejandro Edda, find the gate to the Tucker residence dangerously unlatched. In a parallel situation, Adela faces her own peril when she tries to rescue a goat caught in a cage, only to unintentionally trigger a trap that invites a duo of masked Purgers intent on causing havoc, resulting in a frantic and dangerous confrontation.

Fortunately, Darius steps in just in time to rescue Adela, but in the confusion, law enforcement misjudges the situation, accusing them of being the remaining Purgers. The Tuckers soon find themselves under siege from a new wave of attackers led by the volatile Kirk, whose misguided sense of justice culminates in catastrophic violence against Caleb.

In the midst of chaos, Juan and TT spring into action to protect Dylan, Harper, and Cassie, showing remarkable courage in the pursuit of safety. As violence continues in the streets, Adela and Darius suffer a traumatic blow in the form of a tragic accident that leads to a white supremacist’s violent assault on Adela. Though Darius comes to her aid, he ultimately chooses to stay back and battle Purgers while Adela escapes with others.

As relentless turmoil envelops them, news of Mexico and Canada’s temporary opening of borders offers a fleeting glimmer of hope. The group, now fledgling survivors, employs an “Ever After” flag as a distraction in their race towards safety in Mexico.

Amid this harrowing attempt to cross, a significant conversation unfolds between Juan and Dylan, who confronts their deeply ingrained beliefs. Yet as they journey forth, danger looms large when Elijah Hardin and his wife, Mother, confront the group with a life-threatening ultimatum. Tension escalates rapidly as they unearth their resolve to fight back, even at great cost.

As the group presses on through rising chaos, they learn that the Ever After Purgers have attacked a military compound, leading to the permanent closure of Mexico’s borders. This stark reality fuels their urgency to unlock the meaning behind the card given to Adela. The journey of piecing together the cryptic message leads them to a sanctuary teeming with survivors, though the ominous Ever After Purgers are hot on their trail.

When Cassie’s labor pains strikes, a frantic rush ensues to get her to medical help, while Dylan joins Adela and Juan in defending the compound against the ever-encroaching violence. The ensuing clash reaches a fever pitch as Juan valiantly battles the oncoming threat, revealing the indomitable spirit of the group.

In the aftermath of the battle, as Dylan races to the medical tent following success against their captors, the arrival of a newborn girl heralds a fragile yet poignant moment of hope against overwhelming odds. Although America lies in shambles under the rule of Purgers, an uprising from the ordinary citizens resonates throughout, igniting a flicker of resistance that may yet signal the dawn of a new tomorrow.

Uncover the Details: Timeline, Characters, Themes, and Beyond!

Mobile App Preview

Coming soon on iOS and Android

The Plot Explained Mobile App

From blockbusters to hidden gems — dive into movie stories anytime, anywhere. Save your favorites, discover plots faster, and never miss a twist again.

Sign up to be the first to know when we launch. Your email stays private — always.

Watch Trailers, Clips & Behind-the-Scenes for The Forever Prisoner

See more

Watch official trailers, exclusive clips, cast interviews, and behind-the-scenes footage from The Forever Prisoner. Dive deeper into the making of the film, its standout moments, and key production insights.


Official Trailer

The Forever Prisoner Other Names and Titles

Explore the various alternative titles, translations, and other names used for The Forever Prisoner across different regions and languages. Understand how the film is marketed and recognized worldwide.


Věčný vězeň Mūžīgi ieslodzītie Więzień na zawsze Prisioneiro Para Sempre האסיר לנצח Вечный заключенный 더 포에버 프리즈너 Prisionero Para Siempre Der ewige Gefangene Вечният затворник เชลยขังลืม 永远的囚犯

© 2025 What's After the Movie. All rights reserved.