Calm at Sunset Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict
Last updated: May 15, 2026
Movie Overview: Calm at Sunset
| Movie | Calm at Sunset |
| Release Year | 1996 |
| Director | Daniel Petrie |
| Genre | Drama / TV Movie |
| Runtime | 105 minutes (1h 45m) |
| Language | EN |
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Calm at Sunset (1996) 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 Drama.
Cast & Character Study
The performances in Calm at Sunset are led by Michael Moriarty . The supporting cast, including Kate Nelligan and Peter Facinelli , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.
movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?
What Works in the Movie
While Calm at Sunset 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, Calm at Sunset 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: Calm at Sunset
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1996, Calm at Sunset is a Drama, TV Movie film directed by Daniel Petrie. The narrative explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. It provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Michael Moriarty as Russell Pfeiffer.
Ending Explained: Calm at Sunset
Calm at Sunset Ending Explained: Drama about a young man who defies his parents by dropping out of college to pursue his dream of owning a fishing boat, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather. Directed by Daniel Petrie, this 1996 drama film stars Michael Moriarty (Russell Pfeiffer), alongside Kate Nelligan as Margaret Pfeiffer, Peter Facinelli as James Pfeiffer, Kevin Conway as Kelley Dobbs. With a 6.2/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.
What Happens at the End of Calm at Sunset?
Drama about a young man who defies his parents by dropping out of college to pursue his dream of owning a fishing boat, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather.
How Does Michael Moriarty (Russell Pfeiffer)'s Story End?
- Michael Moriarty: Michael Moriarty's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Kate Nelligan (Margaret Pfeiffer): Kate Nelligan's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Peter Facinelli (James Pfeiffer): Peter Facinelli's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of Calm at Sunset Mean?
Calm at Sunset's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Michael Moriarty may feel rushed. Daniel Petrie's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.
Calm at Sunset Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Is Calm at Sunset Based on a True Story?
No, Calm at Sunset is a work of fiction. While the drama, tv movie film directed by Daniel Petrie and starring Michael Moriarty may incorporate realistic themes, the characters and plot are original creations.
Who Should Watch Calm at Sunset?
Age Advisory: Rated Not Rated.
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Drama films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Michael Moriarty or the director
- Want a character-driven story with emotional moments
Where to Watch Calm at Sunset Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
fuboTV
YouTube TV
Philo
Hallmark+ Amazon Channel
Hallmark+ Apple TV Channel
Hallmark TV Amazon ChannelCalm at Sunset Parents Guide & Age Rating
1996 AdvisoryWondering about Calm at Sunset age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Calm at Sunset (1996) is 105 minutes (1h 45m). Directed by Daniel Petrie, the film runs for 105 minutes in its complete theatrical version.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.2/10, and global performance metrics, Calm at Sunset is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1996 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Calm at Sunset worth watching?
Calm at Sunset is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama 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 Calm at Sunset parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Calm at Sunset identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the runtime of Calm at Sunset (1996)?
The runtime of Calm at Sunset (1996) is 105 minutes (approximately 1h 45m).
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.
