The Best R-Rated Women In Prison Movies

Over 900 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best R-Rated Women In Prison Movies
Voting Rules
Add your favorite movie to the list if it's missing, but only if it's the correct rating.
Latest additions: Paradise Road, Freeway, Red Heat
Most divisive: Sweet Sugar

This list takes the best R-Rated women in prison movies and compares them to on another see once and for all what the greatest R-rated women in prison movie of all time. The popular R-rated WIP movies have everything you want from these classic films. If you think a top R-rated women in prison movie isn't as high as it should be then be sure to vote it up so it can take its rightful place among the other great R-Rated women in prison films on this list. If you're trying to find a specific R-rated women in prison film you can search this list and filter to find what you're looking for. The great movies on this list range from Caged Heat to Black Mama White Mama. But which one should be at the top? You get to help decide by voting up your favorites.

If you're trying to find out "What are the best R-Rated women in prison movies?" and "What are the most famous R-Rated women in prison movies?" then this list is the perfect resource for you.

Use this list if you're looking for some new women in prison movies that are rated R. Between Netflix, Hulu and other services there are thousands of great women in prison movies rated R, so get out there and start watching.

Jonathan Demme and Roger Corman are among the directors that have worked on a R Women in prison films film.

Ranked by
  • Chained Heat
    1
    Linda Blair, John Vernon, Sybil Danning
    219 votes
    • Released: 1983
    • Directed by: Paul Nicolas

    Chained Heat, a groundbreaking and enthralling exploration of the hidden underworld within a women's prison, presents audiences with a gripping tale laced with raw emotions and intensity. Boasting riveting performances from its stellar cast, which includes Linda Blair as Carol and Sybil Danning as Ericka, the film's unflinching depiction of the power struggle captivated viewers, remaining an iconic standout within the subgenre of women-in-prison films. Through its raw narrative, Chained Heat transcends its time, with its legacy undeniably linked to the compelling portrayals onscreen.

  • Reform School Girls
    2
    Wendy O. Williams, Sybil Danning, Sherri Stoner
    28 votes
    • Released: 1986
    • Directed by: Tom DeSimone

    With Reform School Girls, the dramatic plight of vulnerable Jenny (played by Linda Carol), as she navigates a treacherous reform school, leaves viewers on the edge of their seats. Known for its unrelenting realism and memorable performances, particularly that of Wendy O. Williams as the nefarious Charlie, this unique feature captured the attention of audiences near and far. As tensions escalate and alliances form, Reform School Girls lays the foundation for a lifelong appreciation of women-in-prison films, earning its place among the best.

    Available On:

  • Women in Cages
    3
    Pam Grier, Roberta Collins, Paquito Diaz
    77 votes
    • Released: 1971
    • Directed by: Gerardo de León

    Women in Cages, a tour de force in the world of exploitation cinema, stars the formidable Pam Grier as Alabama, a brutal warden overseeing her prisoners with an iron fist. Grier's powerful performance, coupled with the daring and provocative storytelling, catapulted Women in Cages into the annals of women-in-prison film history. As the film's taut narrative probes the depths of power and resilience, it simultaneously evokes a sense of intrigue, forever endearing itself to audiences intrigued by this unique subgenre.

  • Caged Heat
    4
    Barbara Steele, Desireé Cousteau, Gary Goetzman
    100 votes
    • Released: 1974
    • Directed by: Jonathan Demme

    Caged Heat, a masterful fusion of social commentary and exploitation cinema, delves into the harsh realities of women's incarceration. Director Jonathan Demme brings to life a vivid and startling portrayal of the notorious prison, masterfully led by its unforgettable cast, including Erica Gavin as Maggie and Barbara Steele as Superintendent McQueen. As Caged Heat invites viewers into its stark world, it earns its reputation as a groundbreaking and visceral example of the women-in-prison genre.

    Available On:

    free

  • Female Convict Scorpion: Jailhouse 41
    5
    Meiko Kaji, Fumio Watanabe, Kayoko Shiraishi
    18 votes
    • Released: 1972
    • Directed by: Shunya Itō

    Female Convict Scorpion: Jailhouse 41 takes a refreshing spin to the women-in-prison genre, where the enigmatic protagonist, Nami (played by Meiko Kaji), exudes a quiet power within her treacherous confines. Nami's journey of retribution is both riveting and unsettling, further bolstered by Shunya Ito's compelling direction. The film's innovative approach, blending graphic visuals and social commentary, has cemented Female Convict Scorpion: Jailhouse 41 as a cultural touchstone within women-in-prison classics.

  • Female Convict Scorpion: Beast Stable
    6
    Meiko Kaji, Mikio Narita, Kōji Nanbara
    15 votes
    • Released: 1973
    • Directed by: Shunya Itō

    Female Convict Scorpion: Beast Stable, a daring continuation of the captivating saga of Nami (Meiko Kaji), provides an unflinching look into the gritty world of women's incarceration. As a follow-up to the critically acclaimed series, this entry solidifies its place in the popular women-in-prison genre, offering a riveting exploration of vengeance and the power of human will. The film's relentless pace, high-stake scenarios, and compelling narrative position Female Convict Scorpion: Beast Stable as a true tour de force of exploitation cinema.