Prisoner, the

Prisoner, the
Episodes:	17
Year:	1967-1968
Country:	United Kingdom
Seasons:	1
Seasons Breakdown:	(1) 17
Category:	Psychological drama
Colour:	Yes
Format:	Series
Company:	Everyman Films and ITC Entertainment
Creator:	Patrick McGoohan
Run Time (mins):	50
Language:	English
Type of Show:	Live Action
Status:	Ended
Broadcaster:	ITV
First Aired:	September 29, 1967
Last Aired:	February 2, 1968

Summary

The narrative begins with the abrupt resignation of a government employee from a classified post. Upon returning to his residence, he is observed preparing luggage, apparently for a holiday. Without warning, gas is released through the keyhole, rendering him unconscious. He later awakens in what appears to be the same room, but upon looking outside he discovers an unfamiliar and meticulously designed environment known as The Village. Abducted by unknown parties, he has become The Prisoner.

The Village raises immediate questions regarding its location, administration, and purpose. It functions as a fully self‑contained community, equipped with shops, a café, a labour exchange, and a retirement home. It maintains its own radio and television services and publishes a local newspaper, The Tally Ho. However, its telephones permit only internal calls, and its taxis are restricted to the Village boundaries.

The population consists largely of individuals formerly employed by various governments who possessed access to sensitive information. Some serve as administrators, while others are detainees. All inhabitants are identified by numbers rather than names. The protagonist is designated Number Six. The visible authority is Number Two, assisted by a silent dwarf butler, although Number Two ultimately answers to the unseen and enigmatic Number One.

The purpose of Number Six’s confinement is established early. The authorities seek information, particularly the reason for his resignation. A succession of Number Twos employ a wide array of methods, including pharmacological intervention, brainwashing, torture, psychological manipulation, and dream control, to extract this knowledge. Concurrently, Number Six pursues his own inquiries, notably the identity of Number One, while continually attempting to escape. His efforts are hindered by pervasive electronic surveillance and by Rover, a large white balloon‑like device that captures and returns escapees.

The series evolves into an extended contest of strategy between Number Six and the Village authorities. Although repeatedly thwarted, he refuses to capitulate and gradually gains leverage. The narrative culminates in a sequence of surreal and chaotic events through which he ultimately secures his release, at least from the physical confines of the Village.

Cast

The Prisoner/Number 6 PATRICK MCGOOHAN, The Butler ANGELO MUSCAT, The Supervisor (8 out of 17 episodes) PETER SWANWICK, Voice of village announcer FENELLA FIELDING, Number 2 LEO MCKERN.