Ballad
Ballad Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict
Last updated: May 10, 2026
Movie Overview: Ballad
| Movie | Ballad |
| Release Year | 2009 |
| Director | Takashi Yamazaki |
| Genre | Drama / Action / Romance |
| Runtime | 132 minutes (2h 12m) |
| Language | JA |
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Ballad (2009) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.4/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Drama.
Cast & Character Study
The performances in Ballad are led by Tsuyoshi Kusanagi . The supporting cast, including Yui Aragaki and Takao Osawa , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.
movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?
What Works in the Movie
While Ballad does not fully realize its potential, it still contains moments that may appeal to viewers who enjoy Drama films.
- Interesting concept or premise
- Some entertaining scenes
- Supporting cast delivers occasional highlights
What Doesn't Work
Despite its strengths, Ballad has a few issues that may affect the overall viewing experience, particularly in terms of pacing and narrative consistency.
- Uneven pacing in certain parts of the film
- Some predictable plot developments
- May not appeal to audiences outside the Drama fanbase
Story & Plot Summary: Ballad
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2009, Ballad is a Drama, Action, Romance film directed by Takashi Yamazaki, written by Yoshito Usui. The narrative explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. It provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Tsuyoshi Kusanagi as Matabe Ijiri.
Ending Explained: Ballad
Ballad Ending Explained: Directed by Takashi Yamazaki, Ballad attempts to bring together the film’s narrative threads. The ending highlights the core drama themes developed throughout the film.
The emotional resolution focuses on the transformation of its main characters, particularly in scenes involving Tsuyoshi Kusanagi. The interpretation of the ending may vary among viewers.
Key Elements of the Ending
- Narrative Resolution: The story resolves its primary conflict while leaving room for interpretation.
- Character Development: Character motivations become clearer by the final scenes.
- Thematic Message: The ending reinforces the drama themes introduced earlier in the film.
The final moments of Ballad reflect the creative choices of the filmmakers and align with the tone of the narrative.
Ballad Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Is Ballad Based on a True Story?
Ballad uses real-world events as inspiration. As a drama, action, romance film directed by Takashi Yamazaki, the production explores how real events can be adapted into a dramatic narrative.
Real Story vs Movie Version
The film takes creative liberties to strengthen its narrative. Certain scenes are likely dramatized to enhance emotional impact.
While inspired by real events, the narrative focuses more on storytelling than strict historical accuracy.
Accuracy Assessment: Ballad uses real-life inspiration as the foundation for a dramatized narrative. The film prioritizes thematic storytelling over strict documentary accuracy.
Who Should Watch Ballad?
Age Advisory: Rated Not Rated.
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Drama films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Where to Watch Ballad Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
Amazon Prime Video
Hulu
Amazon Prime Video with AdsBallad Parents Guide & Age Rating
2009 AdvisoryWondering about Ballad age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Ballad (2009) is 132 minutes (2h 12m). Directed by Takashi Yamazaki, the film runs for 132 minutes in its complete theatrical version.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.4/10, and global performance metrics, Ballad is classified as a AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 2009 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ballad worth watching?
Ballad is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 5.4/10 and stands as a AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Ballad parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Ballad identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the runtime of Ballad (2009)?
The runtime of Ballad (2009) is 132 minutes (approximately 2h 12m).
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.
