Starred Up (2014)

Kernel Score: 81% · 1,000 ratings · Rated R

Genres: Drama

Released: 2014-03-21

Runtime: 106 minutes

Where to watch Starred Up

  • Free with ads: Kanopy, Hoopla, Fawesome, Fandango at Home, Pluto TV
  • Rent: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube
  • Buy: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube

US availability, updated 2026-10-23.

Overview

19-year-old Eric, arrogant and ultra-violent, is prematurely transferred to the same adult prison facility as his estranged father. As his explosive temper quickly finds him enemies in both prison authorities and fellow inmates — and his already volatile relationship with his father is pushed past breaking point — Eric is approached by a volunteer psychotherapist, who runs an anger management group for prisoners. Torn between gang politics, prison corruption, and a glimmer of something better, Eric finds himself in a fight for his own life, unsure if his own father is there to protect him or join in punishing him.

Starred Up parents' guide: ages 16+

Parents need to know that this British prison drama features intense, ultra-violent content and strained father-son conflict behind bars.

  • Violence & scariness: Intense — Described as 'ultra-violent,' following a young inmate's explosive temper and volatile conflicts with prison authorities and fellow inmates.

Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official R rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.

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Director

David Mackenzie

Cast

  • Jack O'Connell as Eric Love
  • Ben Mendelsohn as Neville Love
  • Rupert Friend as Oliver Baumer
  • David Ajala as Tyrone
  • Peter Ferdinando as Spencer
  • Gershwyn Eustache Jnr as Des
  • Anthony Welsh as Hassan
  • David Avery as Ashley
  • Sian Breckin as Governor Cardew
  • Sam Spruell as Deputy Governor Haynes

Starred Up FAQ

Is Starred Up good?

Starred Up has an 81% Kernel Score on Fresh Kernels from 1,000 audience ratings.

Where can I watch Starred Up?

In the US you can watch it free with ads on Kanopy, Hoopla, Fawesome, Fandango at Home and Pluto TV and rent it from Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play and YouTube.

Is Starred Up OK for kids?

Starred Up is rated R. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 16+. Parents need to know that this British prison drama features intense, ultra-violent content and strained father-son conflict behind bars.

What movies are like Starred Up?

If you liked Starred Up, try Fight Club, Bronson, Standing Tall and Corpus Christi.