Adrift
Performance & Direction: Adrift Review
Last updated: February 23, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Adrift (2018) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 6.8/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Thriller.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Thriller is often anchored by its ensemble, and Adrift features a noteworthy lineup led by Shailene Woodley . Supported by the likes of Sam Claflin and Jeffrey Thomas , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: Adrift
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2018, Adrift is a Thriller, Romance, Adventure film directed by Baltasar Kormákur. The narrative builds tension through unpredictable twists and keeps audiences guessing until the final reveal. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Shailene Woodley.
Story Breakdown
The plot weaves a complex web of mystery and suspense. Tami Oldham and Richard Sharp couldn't anticipate that they would be sailing directly into one of the most catastrophic hurricanes in recorded history. In the aftermath of the storm, Tami awakens to find Richard badly injured and their boat in ruins. With no hope of rescue, Tami must now find the strength and determination to save herself and the only man she has ever loved. Information is revealed strategically, keeping viewers engaged as they piece together clues alongside Shailene Woodley. The narrative maintains momentum through well-timed revelations and unexpected turns.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The opening scene plants the seeds of mystery, introducing questions that will drive the narrative forward.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. Shailene Woodley's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: All mysteries converge in a climax that recontextualizes earlier events and delivers satisfying answers.
Ending Explained: Adrift
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Baltasar Kormákur, Adrift concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to thriller resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes involving Shailene Woodley, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the thriller themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Adrift reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Adrift?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Thriller films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Shailene Woodley or the director
- Want suspenseful moments and mystery
Box Office Collection: Adrift
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $35.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $59.9M |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Adrift Budget
The estimated production budget for Adrift is $35.0M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
Top Cast: Adrift
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Where to Watch Adrift Online?
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Apple TV StoreGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeAdrift Parents Guide & Age Rating
2018 AdvisoryWondering about Adrift age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Adrift is 96 minutes (1h 36m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.8/10, and global performance metrics, Adrift is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 2018 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Adrift worth watching?
Adrift is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Thriller movies. It has a verified rating of 6.8/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Adrift parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Adrift identifies it as PG-13. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Adrift?
The total duration of Adrift is 96 minutes, which is approximately 1h 36m long.
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Critic Reviews for Adrift
This is an amazing movie of survival on the open sea. I'm going to watch this again, in a few years from now, when I've forgotten the details. Highly recommended film. It's theme may not be one that lifts your mood, but still, watch it. You won't regret it, it restores faith in what we are able to pull through.
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
