Cell 211 (2009) Review: A Spanish Classic
★★★★½ 4.5/5
Essential viewing — a certified classic.
Where to watch Cell 211
Streaming: Netflix, AMC+, Sundance Now
By region: Netflix, AMC+, Sundance Now in the United States; StudioCanal Presents in the United Kingdom
Full scores & availability on the movie page.
Is Cell 211 worth watching?
Yes — Cell 211 remains one of the most celebrated films from Spain, with a 96/100 Celluloid Editorial Rating and enduring audience appeal. On Celluloid it holds a 96/100 Celluloid Editorial Rating, 89% Audience Snapshot, 74 Metascore, 4.1 on Letterboxd, and 7.6 on IMDb — numbers that explain why it still surfaces on every “best of Spain” list.
What is Cell 211 about?
A new prison guard trapped during a riot must pose as an inmate to survive among leaders negotiating with the government. Directed by Daniel Monzón, the film stars Luis Tosar, Alberto Ammann, Antonio Resines, and remains a reference point for Thriller and Drama filmmaking from Spain.
Should you watch Cell 211?
Yes, without hesitation — Cell 211 rewards viewers who want more than algorithm-friendly new releases. At 113 minutes, it more than earns its running time — and the critics’ consensus still resonates today: Monzón’s claustrophobic thriller became Spain’s Goya sweep and a masterclass in tension.
Where can I watch Cell 211?
Streaming availability varies by region — check major platforms in your country or local cinemas for revival screenings. Cell 211 (2009) is widely indexed on IMDb (tt1242422) and remains one of the most searched classic titles from Spain on CelluloidScore.com.
If you liked Cell 211
Ranked by genre overlap and Celluloid Score — full “movies like Cell 211” page.
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Drama, Thriller · 1h 58m
Cannes 2019 Parasite
Thriller, Drama · 2h 12m
Cannes 2018 Shoplifters
Drama, Crime · 2h 0m
The Lives of Others
Drama, Thriller · 2h 17m
Streaming: Netflix, AMC+, Sundance Now. Regional notes: Netflix, AMC+, Sundance Now in the United States; StudioCanal Presents in the United Kingdom.