186 Dollars to Freedom poster

186 Dollars to Freedom

Movie 2012 4.5 /10
Directed by Camilo Vila

In 1980 a carefree California surfer finds himself behind bars in a Peruvian political prison after a sudden, bewildering turn of events. With little more than grit and a stubborn will to survive, he must learn the rules of a place where danger hides in the most unexpected corners. The once sun... Read more

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Streaming availability last verified: January 20, 2026

About 186 Dollars to Freedom

In 1980 a carefree California surfer finds himself behind bars in a Peruvian political prison after a sudden, bewildering turn of events. With little more than grit and a stubborn will to survive, he must learn the rules of a place where danger hides in the most unexpected corners. The once sun soaked days give way to claustrophobic routines, daily threats, and a new sense of responsibility toward his fellow inmates. What starts as a fight to stay alive grows into a test of humanity as the prison becomes a brutal proving ground. The film follows his adaptation under intense pressure, testing loyalty, courage, and the limits of hope as he forms fragile alliances. It tests limits and reveals grit.

Directed by Camilo Vila, 186 Dollars to Freedom arrives with Monty Fisher credited as creator. The film blends action and drama through Vila's lean, hard edged style, anchored by a cast led by John Robinson and Michael DeLorenzo in Peru.

Box office data for this title is not publicly available. The film appears to have flown under the radar in wide release, making it difficult to gauge its commercial impact beyond its festival circuit and digital footprint in most markets.

No widely reported award nominations are listed in available sources. The film did not attract notable recognition, a fate shared by many smaller indie productions. Its reception seems driven more by mood and performances than by accolades. Awards aside, its craft and mood may still resonate with some viewers worldwide.

This title probes resilience and moral choice under oppression. The cast delivers tense performances that convey danger and grit, while the Peru setting adds a stark, claustrophobic mood. It asks how far someone will go to protect others without losing themselves. Its action scenes feel grounded rather than truly glossy.

Details

Release Date
September 21, 2012
User Ratings
20 votes
Type
Movie
Genres
Action, Drama

Official Trailer

Cast

John Robinson

John Robinson

Wayne

Michael DeLorenzo

Michael DeLorenzo

Gutierrez

Alex Meraz

Alex Meraz

Nicaragua

Johnny Lewis

Johnny Lewis

Jorge

Grant Bowler

Grant Bowler

Jesus Christ

Deborah Kara Unger

Deborah Kara Unger

Consul Powers

Ruben Rabasa

Ruben Rabasa

Cardoso

N

Nick Machado

Magoo

Rocío Lázaro

Rocío Lázaro

Lourdes

Renzo Schuller

Renzo Schuller

Chino

Director: Camilo Vila

Written by: Monty Fisher

Frequently Asked Questions

186 Dollars to Freedom is not currently available on streaming subscription services, but you can rent or buy it on Apple iTunes, Vudu, and Amazon Video.

Yes, you can rent on Apple iTunes, Vudu, and Amazon Video or buy on Apple iTunes, Vudu, and Amazon Video.

With a rating of 4.5/10 from 20 viewers, 186 Dollars to Freedom is a mixed bag - check out reviews to see if it's right for you.

In 1980 a carefree California surfer finds himself behind bars in a Peruvian political prison after a sudden, bewildering turn of events. With little more than grit and a stubborn will to survive, he must learn the rules of a place where danger hides in the most unexpected corners. The once sun s...

186 Dollars to Freedom stars John Robinson, Michael DeLorenzo, Alex Meraz, Johnny Lewis, and Grant Bowler.

186 Dollars to Freedom was directed by Camilo Vila.

186 Dollars to Freedom was released on September 21, 2012.

186 Dollars to Freedom is a Action and Drama film.

Camilo Vila directed the movie. The film is categorized as action and drama and was released in 2012.

Monty Fisher is the creator. The movie blends action and drama and features a cast led by John Robinson as Wayne.

John Robinson plays Wayne. Wayne is the young California surfer who ends up in a Peruvian political prison in 1980, according to the synopsis.

Alex Meraz portrays Nicaragua. He is listed among the top cast for the film.