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Hard Cell (2022)

TV showRated MA15+

IMDb6.4/ 10CTV score5.8/ 10

Where to watch Hard Cell in Australia

Streaming availability data from JustWatch.

About Hard Cell

A Netflix comedy series written and directed by Catherine Tate set in a women's prison. Tate plays multiple characters as a documentary crew follows the inmates and staff of HMP Woldsley capturing the penal system at its brutal humorous best.

Year
2022
Genres
Comedy
Seasons
1
Top cast
Catherine Tate, Christian Brassington, Niky Wardley, Lorna Brown, Caroline Harding

Hard Cell trailer

Hard Cell trailerPlay video: Hard Cell trailer

What our critics think

Independent reviews from the Compare TV editorial team.

Review Team

★★★★★4/5

Hard Cell, directed by Catherine Tate, is a refreshing take on the prison genre, blending comedy with poignant moments that resonate with audiences. The series is set in a women's prison, where Tate's ability to portray multiple characters adds a unique layer to the narrative. Each episode unfolds like a documentary, capturing the quirks and struggles of both inmates and staff. The humour is sharp yet sensitive, offering a critique of the penal system while never losing sight of the humanity of its characters. Tate's performances are a standout, showcasing her range and ability to evoke both laughter and empathy. The pacing is well-balanced, allowing for moments of levity intertwined with deeper reflections on life behind bars. Overall, Hard Cell is a compelling watch that manages to entertain while provoking thought about serious societal issues.

Editor Team

★★★★★3/5

Hard Cell has its moments, but it feels like a mixed bag. Catherine Tate's comedic style shines through, and she clearly has fun with her multi-character role, but the series sometimes struggles to find its footing. The premise of a documentary crew in a women's prison is intriguing, yet the execution can be uneven. Some scenes are genuinely hilarious, while others drag on a bit too long. The blend of humour and serious themes is admirable, but it doesn’t always hit the mark. If you're a fan of Tate, you might enjoy the series, but it may not be for everyone. It's a light watch, but don’t expect it to break new ground in the genre.

How viewers describe this

  • humorous
  • poignant
  • entertaining
  • uneven
  • sharp
  • light-hearted
  • reflective
  • quirky
  • engaging
  • mixed
  • absurd
  • clever

Hard Cell seasons

Streaming Charts

The JustWatch Streaming Charts are calculated by user activity from the last 24 hours.

Got a question about Hard Cell?

Is Hard Cell worth watching?

Yes, Hard Cell is worth watching if you enjoy a blend of comedy and social commentary. The series offers a humorous yet poignant look at life in a women's prison, enhanced by Catherine Tate's versatile performances.

What is Hard Cell really about?

Hard Cell follows the daily lives of inmates and staff at HMP Woldsley, capturing the absurdities and challenges of prison life through a comedic lens. It highlights the interactions between the documentary crew and the characters, showcasing their unique stories.

Is Hard Cell suitable for children?

No, Hard Cell is not suitable for children. The series contains mature themes, strong language, and adult humour, making it more appropriate for an adult audience.

What happens at the end of Hard Cell?

Spoiler alert: The finale of Hard Cell sees the characters facing their realities, with moments of both humour and reflection. The series concludes on a note that balances comedy with the seriousness of their situations, leaving viewers with much to ponder.

Where can I watch Hard Cell in Australia?

You can watch Hard Cell exclusively on Netflix in Australia. The series is available for streaming to subscribers of the platform.

Is there a sequel to Hard Cell?

As of now, there has been no announcement regarding a sequel to Hard Cell. The series stands alone, but its popularity may influence future projects.

What films are similar to Hard Cell?

If you enjoyed Hard Cell, you might like other comedy series set in unique environments, such as Orange Is the New Black or the British series Bad Girls, which also explore themes of incarceration with a mix of drama and humour.

Is Hard Cell scary?

Hard Cell is not a horror series; it leans more towards comedy. While it tackles some serious themes, the overall tone remains light-hearted and humorous rather than scary.