Inside the Prisoner: Radical Television and Film in the 1960s : Book Review

"Inside the Prisoner" by Ian Rakoff offers readers a unique behind-the-scenes glimpse into the making of the cult British television series, "The Prisoner." Drawing from his firsthand experiences as a script editor for the show, Rakoff provides a captivating insight into the creative process and the challenges faced during its production.

The book serves as an invaluable resource for fans of "The Prisoner," delving into its background and development. Rakoff shares fascinating anecdotes, interviews, and behind-the-scenes stories that shed light on the show's distinctive concepts and the mind behind it all, Patrick McGoohan. Readers gain a deeper understanding of the series' themes surrounding individualism, identity, and societal control.

Rakoff's writing style is engaging and informative, taking readers on a captivating journey through the production of "The Prisoner." By offering an insider's perspective on the show's unconventional approach and its struggles with censorship, the author provides a thorough exploration of its impact on the television landscape during its time. The book brims with intriguing details that fans will undoubtedly appreciate, from discussions about the enigmatic Rover to the challenges faced during filming in Portmeirion.

One of the remarkable strengths of "Inside the Prisoner" lies in its ability to encapsulate the show's enduring appeal. Rakoff's passion for "The Prisoner" shines through as he explores its cultural significance and influence. Moreover, the book includes interviews with key figures involved in the production, offering diverse perspectives and adding depth to the narrative.

In conclusion, "Inside the Prisoner" is a must-read for devoted fans of the show and those intrigued by the creative process behind television production. Rakoff's expertise and storytelling mastery make for a compelling and enlightening read, delivering a comprehensive examination of one of television's most iconoclastic and innovative series.

What are readers saying?

Inside the Prisoner by Ian Rakoff has garnered a range of opinions from readers. While some found the book to be a captivating and insightful exploration of the cult classic TV series, others were disappointed by its lack of depth and analysis.

One recurring theme among positive reviews is the appreciation for Rakoff's behind-the-scenes stories and anecdotes. As a script editor on The Prisoner, Rakoff offers readers a glimpse into the creative process behind the groundbreaking show. Many readers enjoyed learning about the challenges and controversies that arose during its production, finding it fascinating and informative.

Rakoff's writing style received praise from readers, who found it engaging and immersive. The book is described as an enjoyable and nostalgic journey through the world of The Prisoner, filled with interesting trivia and tidbits.

However, some reviewers expressed disappointment with Inside the Prisoner. They felt that the book lacked depth and analysis, as it mainly presented a collection of behind-the-scenes stories without delving into the deeper themes and meanings of the show. These readers were hoping for a more critical and comprehensive exploration of The Prisoner's impact and significance.

In addition, a few readers found the structure of the book to be disorganized and disjointed. They felt that it jumped between topics and anecdotes without a coherent flow, making it challenging to follow at times.

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