Performance & Direction: Black Magic Review
Last updated: February 16, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Black Magic (1944) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 7.0/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Mystery.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Mystery is often anchored by its ensemble, and Black Magic features a noteworthy lineup led by Sidney Toler . Supported by the likes of Frances Chan and Mantan Moreland , 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: Black Magic
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1944, Black Magic is a Mystery, Comedy, Horror film directed by Phil Rosen. 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 Sidney Toler.
Ending Explained: Black Magic
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Phil Rosen, Black Magic resolves its central conflict while maintaining thematic consistency. The finale has been praised for its approach to mystery resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes involving Sidney Toler, 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 mystery themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Black Magic reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Black Magic?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Mystery films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Sidney Toler or the director
- Want solid genre entertainment
Box Office Collection: Black Magic
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $75.0K |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Black Magic Budget
The estimated production budget for Black Magic is $75.0K. 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: Black Magic
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch Black Magic Online?
Streaming HubBlack Magic Parents Guide & Age Rating
1944 AdvisoryWondering about Black Magic age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Black Magic is 67 minutes (1h 7m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 7.0/10, and global performance metrics, Black Magic is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 1944 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Black Magic worth watching?
Black Magic is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Mystery movies. It has a verified rating of 7/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Black Magic parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Black Magic identifies it as NR. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Black Magic?
The total duration of Black Magic is 67 minutes, which is approximately 1h 7m long.
Best Movies to Watch if you liked Black Magic
How Black Magic Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Black Magic
Now then, this one really struggles to get going. This time it's daughter "Frances" (Frances Chan) who helps "Pop" investigate some odd activity at the home of the new employers of "Birmingham Brown" (Mantan Moreland), who has been released by "Charlie" - who just wants to get back to Honolulu. When hypnotism causes one woman to take a step too far; the race is on to thwart the mysterious, evil, perpetrator before anyone else comes a cropper. Moreland tries too hard, his daftness is too contrived and strained, and though he could be annoying from time to time, it misses "Jimmy" too. The psychic/occult theme has provided well for these films, but maybe this one tries to squeeze just a little too much from an already well exhausted fruit (might that be a "Charlie-ism"?) and i found it quite a long watch. It has it's moments of suspense, though, it's not terrible - it's just lacking certain important ingredients.
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.
Useful Links
More with Sidney Toler
View full filmography
Part of the Charlie Chan (Sidney Toler) Collection
Explore the full watch order, ratings, and collection details.
View Full Franchise