Busting
Performance & Direction: Busting Review
Last updated: February 18, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Busting (1974) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 6.2/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Crime.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Crime is often anchored by its ensemble, and Busting features a noteworthy lineup led by Elliott Gould . Supported by the likes of Robert Blake and Allen Garfield , 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: Busting
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1974, Busting is a Crime, Drama, Action film directed by Peter Hyams. The narrative dives into the criminal underworld with a grounded sense of realism and complex morality. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Elliott Gould.
Ending Explained: Busting
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Peter Hyams, Busting concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to crime resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation involving Elliott Gould, 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 crime themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Busting reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Busting Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Busting incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a crime, drama, action film directed by Peter Hyams, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Elliott Gould'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: Busting adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Busting?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Crime films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Elliott Gould or the director
- Want solid genre entertainment
Top Cast: Busting
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Where to Watch Busting Online?
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PhiloBusting Parents Guide & Age Rating
1974 AdvisoryWondering about Busting age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Busting is 92 minutes (1h 32m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.2/10, and global performance metrics, Busting is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1974 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Busting worth watching?
Busting is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Crime movies. It has a verified rating of 6.2/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Busting parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Busting identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Busting?
The total duration of Busting is 92 minutes, which is approximately 1h 32m long.
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How Busting Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Busting
Some interesting visuals, a decent (if not funny) ambulance chase sequence at the end, and strong performance from Elliott Gould, but the script is weak and is a forgettable 1970s crime-drama. **3.0/5**
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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