Big Time
Performance & Direction: Big Time Review
Last updated: February 28, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Big Time (1988) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 7.3/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Documentary.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Documentary is often anchored by its ensemble, and Big Time features a noteworthy lineup led by Tom Waits . Supported by the likes of Michael L. Blair and Ralph Carney , 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: Big Time
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1988, Big Time is a Documentary, Music film directed by Chris Blum. The narrative presents a compelling narrative that engages viewers from start to finish. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Tom Waits.
Ending Explained: Big Time
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Chris Blum, Big Time resolves its central conflict while maintaining thematic consistency. The finale has been praised for its approach to documentary resolution.
The conclusion addresses the core thematic questions involving Tom Waits, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes with clear resolution of its central conflicts, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Main characters complete meaningful transformations, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the documentary themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Big Time reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Big Time?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Documentaries films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Tom Waits or the director
- Want solid genre entertainment
Box Office Collection: Big Time
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Worldwide Gross | $148.4K |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Top Cast: Big Time
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Where to Watch Big Time Online?
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PhiloBig Time Parents Guide & Age Rating
1988 AdvisoryWondering about Big Time age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Big Time is 87 minutes (1h 27m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 7.3/10, and global performance metrics, Big Time is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 1988 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Big Time worth watching?
Big Time is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Documentary movies. It has a verified rating of 7.3/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Big Time parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Big Time identifies it as PG. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Big Time?
The total duration of Big Time is 87 minutes, which is approximately 1h 27m long.
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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.










