Apollo 18
Performance & Direction: Apollo 18 Review
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Apollo 18 (2011) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.3/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Horror.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Horror is often anchored by its ensemble, and Apollo 18 features a noteworthy lineup led by Ryan Robbins . Supported by the likes of Warren Christie and Lloyd Owen , 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: Apollo 18
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2011, Apollo 18 is a Horror, Thriller, Science Fiction film directed by Gonzalo López-Gallego. The narrative crafts an atmosphere of dread and suspense, using psychological terror and visual scares. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Ryan Robbins.
Story Breakdown
The horror unfolds through carefully crafted atmosphere and escalating dread. Officially, Apollo 17 was the last manned mission to the moon. But a year later in 1973, three American astronauts were sent on a secret mission to the moon funded by the US Department of Defense. What you are about to see is the actual footage which the astronauts captured on that mission. While NASA denies its authenticity, others say it's the real reason we've never gone back to the moon. Director Gonzalo López-Gallego uses both psychological terror and visceral scares, building tension through what's unseen as much as what's shown. The pacing allows for breathing room between scares, making each frightening moment more effective.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: An unsettling prologue sets the ominous tone, hinting at the terror to come while establishing the rules of this world.
- Character Arc: Character development is present but somewhat formulaic, following familiar patterns without adding fresh perspectives to the genre.
- Climax & Resolution: The final act escalates the terror to its peak, forcing characters to confront the source of horror directly.
Ending Explained: Apollo 18
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Gonzalo López-Gallego, Apollo 18 attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to horror resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes involving Ryan Robbins, 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 horror themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Apollo 18 reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Apollo 18?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Horror films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Box Office Collection: Apollo 18
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $5.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $25.6M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Apollo 18 Budget
The estimated production budget for Apollo 18 is $5.0M. 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: Apollo 18
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch Apollo 18 Online?
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Google Play MoviesYouTubeApollo 18 Parents Guide & Age Rating
2011 AdvisoryWondering about Apollo 18 age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Apollo 18 is 86 minutes (1h 26m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.3/10, and global performance metrics, Apollo 18 is classified as a AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 2011 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Apollo 18 worth watching?
Apollo 18 is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Horror movies. It has a verified rating of 5.3/10 and stands as a AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Apollo 18 parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Apollo 18 identifies it as PG-13. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Apollo 18?
The total duration of Apollo 18 is 86 minutes, which is approximately 1h 26m long.
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Critic Reviews for Apollo 18
Close up, intense and extremely claustrophobic. It's the type of horror mockumentry that I love. If you're not into old style blackbox film, don't watch it. If you're the type to not watch slower intro sequences maybe skip this one.
71/100 Presented as the unauthorized release of footage of the top secret Apollo 18 mission to the moon that didn't go very well. Being as this had low ratings, I wasn't expecting much and I was pleasantly surprised. This is an anxious little creepfest that had some truly tense and shocking moments. I think they effectively made it look like footage from 1973 and it felt very authentic right down to the equipment, the cinematography and the manner of conversation. And when panic starts to set in, it felt personal, genuine and you really cared about these guys. Good film! -- DrNostromo.com
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.
