A Cinematic Milestone Departs Netflix

Stephen King is widely recognized as one of the most adapted authors in literary history, with his works inspiring over 100 screen productions. Among this vast catalog, the 1990 film Misery stands out as the only adaptation to ever secure an Academy Award win. Netflix subscribers have less than 24 hours to stream this classic before it is removed from the platform on April 1st.

Kathy Bates' Iconic Performance

The film earned Kathy Bates the Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of Annie Wilkes. In the movie, Wilkes is a sadistic, obsessive former nurse who kidnaps her favorite author, Paul Sheldon, forcing him to rewrite his latest novel. This chilling performance also earned Bates a Golden Globe Award.

Bates prepared for the role by researching real-life stalker case files. Her portrayal is widely considered one of the most iconic in cinema history, as she expertly balanced a maternal, childlike demeanor with terrifying, unhinged violence. This performance marked a historic moment, as Bates became the first actress to win an Oscar for a role in a horror or thriller film.

Why Misery Remains a Masterpiece

Beyond the acting, Misery is celebrated as a masterclass in suspense. The film utilizes a claustrophobic, isolated setting to heighten the psychological battle between the two leads, maintaining intense tension until the very end. Its high critical ratings place it among the best-regarded Stephen King adaptations ever produced.

Even Stephen King himself has offered high praise for the film. In 2025, the author noted that he believes Rob Reiner’s adaptation is superior to his own book. He stated that the chemistry between James Caan and Kathy Bates was "magic" and that the film incorporated a touch of humor that was absent from his original writing.

Where to Watch After April 1st

Following its removal from Netflix, the film will no longer be available on any major streaming service. However, viewers will still be able to access Misery through an MGM+ subscription or by purchasing or renting the title through digital platforms.