Critically Acclaimed Thriller ‘Brawl in Cell Block 99’ Exits Netflix January 25

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Time is running out to stream one of 2017’s most acclaimed thrillers, as S. Craig Zahler’s brutal prison drama “Brawl in Cell Block 99” leaves Netflix on January 25. The film stars Vince Vaughn in a career-redefining role as Bradley Thomas, a former boxer forced to navigate increasingly dangerous prison environments to protect his family after a drug deal goes wrong.

Despite a limited theatrical release, the film earned widespread critical praise for its uncompromising vision and Vaughn’s dramatic transformation. The actor, known primarily for comedic roles, underwent extensive physical training to perform his own fight sequences, which were captured without CGI or stunt doubles. This commitment to realism helped the film maintain a 90% score on Rotten Tomatoes across 99 reviews.

“Brawl in Cell Block 99” premiered at the 74th Venice International Film Festival and went on to make several prestigious year-end lists, including those of The New York Times, Los Angeles Times, and The A.V. Club. Vaughn’s performance earned him a Saturn Award nomination for Best Actor, while the Museum of Modern Art recognized the film’s artistic merit.

Shot over five weeks on Staten Island with a modest $4 million budget, the film demonstrates how creative constraints can fuel innovation. Cinematographer Benji Bakshi employed a narrower aspect ratio to focus on intimate character moments, while the color palette progressively darkens as the story descends into its hellish third act.

Director Zahler drew inspiration from classic prison films like Don Siegel‘s “Riot in Cell Block 11” but sought to bring new elements to the genre. The film’s commitment to practical effects and extended takes lends its violence a visceral quality rarely seen in modern thrillers.

While the film’s theatrical run grossed just $79,000 worldwide, reflecting the challenges of marketing independent R-rated genre films, it found success through word-of-mouth and streaming. As it prepares to leave Netflix, fans are encouraged to catch this unique thriller before it’s gone.