Is Penitentiary Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Penitentiary is likely a skip if you enjoy Action movies.
It features a runtime of 99 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Penitentiary Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1979, Penitentiary emerges as a significant entry in the Action, Drama, Crime domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of A hitchhiker named Martel Gordone gets in a fight with two bikers over a prostitute, and one of the bikers is killed. Unlike standard genre fare, Penitentiary attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Action is often anchored by its ensemble, and Penitentiary features a noteworthy lineup led by Leon Isaac Kennedy . Supported by the likes of Thommy Pollard and Hazel Spears , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of Penitentiary (1979) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.1/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Penitentiary Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Penitentiary is a Action, Drama, Crime film that delivers high-octane sequences and adrenaline-pumping confrontations that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Penitentiary Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Penitentiary attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to action resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the action themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Penitentiary reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Penitentiary Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Penitentiary incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a action, drama, crime film, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement.
Historical Context
The film takes creative liberties to enhance dramatic impact. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
Creative interpretation shapes the final narrative, focusing on emotional truth over strict chronology.
Accuracy Assessment: Penitentiary adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Penitentiary?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Action films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
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Full Cast & Crew of Penitentiary
- Leon Isaac Kennedy – Martel 'Too Sweet' Gordone
- Thommy Pollard – Eugene T. Lawson
- Hazel Spears – Linda (as Hazel Spear)
- Donovan Womack – Jesse Amos
- Floyd 'Wildcat' Chatman – Hezzikia 'Seldom Seen' Jackson (as Floyd Chatman)
Top Highlights
Leon Isaac KennedyMartel 'Too Sweet' Gordone
Thommy Pollard Eugene T. Lawson
Hazel Spears Linda (as Hazel Spear)
Donovan Womack Jesse Amos
Floyd 'Wildcat' Chatman Hezzikia 'Seldom Seen' Jackson (as Floyd Chatman)
Chuck MitchellLieutenant Arnsworth
Gloria DelaneyPeaches
Wilbur 'Hi-Fi' WhiteSweet Pea
Badja Djola'Half Dead' Johnson
Cepheus Jaxon Poindexter
Where to Watch Penitentiary Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
fuboTV
ScreenPix Apple TV Channel
ScreenPix Amazon Channel Parents Guide & Age Rating
Penitentiary is rated R. Parents should be aware that it contains violence, action sequences, mature themes. It is intended for mature audiences only.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.1/10, and global collection metrics, Penitentiary stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1979 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Penitentiary movie hit or flop?
Penitentiary has received mixed reviews with a 5.1/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Penitentiary worth watching?
Penitentiary is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Action, Drama, Crime movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Penitentiary online?
Penitentiary is currently available for streaming on fuboTV. You can also check for it on platforms like fuboTV, ScreenPix Apple TV Channel, ScreenPix Amazon Channel depending on your region.
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