Doin' Time 1985
"The only prison in the world where you break out. Laughing."
Escape behind bars has never looked this absurdly fun.
Director: George Mendeluk
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Doin' Time (1985) about?
Doin' Time throws Duke Jarrett into a prison that's more country club than cellblock, where the inmates call the shots and the warden couldn't care less. With no real order and plenty of laughs, Duke navigates a world of pranks, schemes, and unforgettable characters who treat incarceration like an extended vacation.
Who directed Doin' Time?
George Mendeluk directed this offbeat prison romp, blending sharp comedy with a wink at authority.
Who stars in Doin' Time?
The cast includes Jeff Altman, Dey Young, Jimmie Walker, Richard Mulligan, and John Vernon bringing the laughs and chaos to the prison yard.
Is Doin' Time (1985) worth watching?
At 81 minutes of pure '80s-style laughs, Doin' Time is a breezy comedy that trades grit for giggles. While it won't win awards, its snappy dialogue and rebellious spirit make it a nostalgic pick for fans of lighthearted prison flicks—just don't expect high-stakes drama here.
How long is Doin' Time?
Doin' Time runs for a quick 81 minutes, perfect for a guilt-free laugh fest.
🎥 Trailer
About Doin' Time (1985) — A screwball prison comedy that turns bars into punchlines
Escape behind bars has never looked this absurdly fun. Set inside the bizarrely lax John Dillinger prison, George Mendeluk's 1985 comedy Doin' Time follows wisecracking newcomer Duke Jarrett as he stumbles into a surreal zoo-like penal colony where the inmates practically run the joint. With no iron bars in sight and the warden more interested in his herb garden than security, Duke quickly learns this isn't a place for hard time—it's a playground for pranksters where chaos and camaraderie rule the yard. From slapstick breakout attempts to unruly talent shows, every day inside feels like a rowdy vacation from real consequences.
The film's irreverent heart comes from Jeff Altman's brash Duke, surrounded by a motley crew including Dey Young as the sharp-tongued sweetheart and the ever-chaotic Jimmie Walker. Mendeluk balances goofy one-liners with sly commentary on authority, turning a standard prison romp into a lighthearted satire about freedom, friendship, and the fine art of bending the rules. Packed into a brisk 81 minutes, Doin' Time is a zany, feel-good reminder that even behind bars, laughter can set you free.