Performance & Direction: Billy Budd Review
Last updated: February 25, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Billy Budd (1966) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a PENDING with a verified audience rating of NR. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Music.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Music is often anchored by its ensemble, and Billy Budd features a noteworthy lineup led by Peter Pears . Supported by the likes of Peter Glossop and Michael Langdon , 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: Billy Budd
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1966, Billy Budd is a Music film directed by Basil Coleman. 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 Peter Pears.
Ending Explained: Billy Budd
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Basil Coleman, Billy Budd attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to music resolution.
The conclusion addresses the core thematic questions involving Peter Pears, 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 music themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Billy Budd reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Billy Budd Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Billy Budd uses real-world events as narrative inspiration. As a music film directed by Basil Coleman, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Peter Pears's character.
Historical Context
The film takes creative liberties to enhance dramatic impact. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
Creative interpretation shapes the final narrative, focusing on emotional truth over strict chronology.
Accuracy Assessment: Billy Budd adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Billy Budd?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Music films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Top Cast: Billy Budd
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Billy Budd Parents Guide & Age Rating
1966 AdvisoryWondering about Billy Budd age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Billy Budd is 158 minutes (2h 38m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 0.0/10, and global performance metrics, Billy Budd is classified as a Upcoming Analysis. It remains an essential part of the 1966 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Billy Budd worth watching?
Our analysis for Billy Budd is currently Pending. We recommend checking the audience response after the opening weekend for a verified "worth watching" recommendation.
Where can I find Billy Budd parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Billy Budd identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Billy Budd?
The total duration of Billy Budd is 158 minutes, which is approximately 2h 38m long.
How Billy Budd Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Billy Budd
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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.
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