Ernest Goes to Jail
Ernest Goes to Jail

Movie spotlight

Ernest Goes to Jail

1990
Movie
81 min
English

Bumbling bank janitor Ernest P. Worrell is assigned to jury duty, and soon finds himself in trouble when he is covertly switched with a look-a-like crime boss. Ernest must escape from jail to expose the mix-up.

Insights

IMDb5.0/10
Rotten Tomatoes38%
Google Users62%
Director: Jeff KanewGenres: Comedy, Family

Plot Summary

Ernest P. Worrell, a well-meaning but accident-prone janitor, finds himself framed for a crime he didn't commit. He's sent to prison where, through a series of comical mishaps, he ends up accidentally switching places with a ruthless crime boss. Now, Ernest must navigate the dangerous prison world while trying to clear his name and expose the real villain.

Critical Reception

Ernest Goes to Jail was met with largely negative reviews from critics, who found the humor predictable and the plot flimsy. Audience reception was mixed, with many enjoying the slapstick antics of Ernest, while others found the film to be one of the weaker entries in the franchise.

What Reviewers Say

  • Ernest's signature slapstick humor is present, but often feels overused and predictable.

  • The plot relies heavily on silly coincidences and broad gags, offering little substance.

  • Fans of the character may find enjoyment, but it's generally considered a weak installment.

Google audience: Audience reviews suggest that while Jim Varney's comedic performance as Ernest is a highlight for many, the movie's plot is often criticized for being too formulaic and less engaging than previous Ernest films.

Fun Fact

The character of Nikos, the Greek millionaire who Ernest impersonates, was originally intended to be a much more menacing figure, but the character was softened during production to better fit the comedic tone of the film.

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TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
LabRat

LabRat

Like Lucio Fulci directed _Face-Off_. Like some hybrid of _Riki-Oh_ and _Pee-Wee’s Playhouse._ Like a children’s film from another dimension. What if Jim Carrey channeled both Bugs Bunny and Anton Chigur in that universe? What if that dimen...

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