Is Cardiac Arrest Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Cardiac Arrest is likely a skip if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 94 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Cardiac Arrest Review
Last updated: January 13, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1980, Cardiac Arrest emerges as a significant entry in the Drama, Crime, Thriller, Horror domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of The "Missing Heart Murders" are plaguing San Francisco - dead bodies that turn up with their hears surgically removed! So a weak-stomached homicide cop looks into the possibilities of a black market for human organs, while across town a man must make a difficult decision regarding his wife, who needs a transplant. Unlike standard genre fare, Cardiac Arrest attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
The screenplay, appearing to prioritize narrative momentum and immediate impact, sets a stage where the stakes feel personal yet universal. Under the directorial eye of Murray Mintz, every scene is crafted to contribute to the atmospheric weight of the story, ensuring that the Drama elements serve the larger narrative arc rather than just providing spectacle.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass in Character Study
The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and Cardiac Arrest features a noteworthy lineup led by Dave McElhatton. Supported by the likes of Garry Goodrow and Michael Paul Chan, 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. However, the sheer charisma of Dave McElhatton, Garry Goodrow, Michael Paul Chan manages to keep the audience invested through the film's more predictable sequences. In the broader context of 1980 cinema, these performances stand as a testament to the evolving standards of acting within the Drama, Crime, Thriller, Horror space.
Directorial Vision & Technical Craftsmanship
From a technical perspective, Cardiac Arrest is a marvel of 21st-century filmmaking. The cinematography, utilizing a moody and atmospheric color palette, significantly enhances the world-building aspects of the production. Each frame seems calculated to guide the viewer's emotional response, whether through wide, sweeping vistas or tight, claustrophobic close-ups that emphasize character isolation.
Technical Excellence: The production design and visual effects provide a solid foundation for the story, ensuring that the world of the film feels lived-in and authentic, even when the narrative logic falters. Furthermore, the sonic landscape—comprising both the score and sound design—adds a layer of subtextual narrative that rewards attentive viewers.
Narrative Pacing & Structural Integrity
The structure of Cardiac Arrest follows a sophisticated brisk pace. Over its 94 minute duration, the film manages to balance exposition with action in a way that remains consistently entertaining. The second act, often the most difficult to manage, serves here as a crucible for character growth, leading toward a climax that feels both inevitable and surprising.
Critically, the editing choices by the team help maintain a narrative tension that rarely wavers. The sharp, concise editing ensures that not a single frame is wasted, making the film ideal for a modern audience that values efficiency in storytelling.
Cultural Impact & Global Resonance
Beyond its immediate entertainment value, Cardiac Arrest resonates with contemporary social and cultural themes prevalent in the Drama landscape of 2026. It addresses concepts such as the nature of heroism and personal legacy with a level of maturity that is often missing from major releases.
This cultural relevance is likely why it has garnered a 3.6/10 rating on our platform. Films like this bridge the gap between niche interest and global appeal, proving that stories rooted in specific human experiences can find a home with audiences worldwide, from the US and UK to India and beyond.
Plot Breakdown & Philosophical Subtext
Analyzing the plot deeper, Cardiac Arrest is more than just its synopsis. It is an inquiry into the complexity of relationships. The "Missing Heart Murders" are plaguing San Francisco - dead bodies that turn up with their hears surgically removed! So a weak-stomached homicide cop looks into the possibilities of a black market for human organs, while across town a man must make a difficult decision regarding his wife, who needs a transplant...
The philosophical underpinnings of the third act suggest a worldview that is standard for its genre yet executed with high professional polish. This is not just a commercial product; it is a piece of art that invites discussion long after the credits have finished rolling.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of Cardiac Arrest (1980) is overwhelmingly negative. With an audience rating of 3.6/10 and strong performance metrics in the Drama, Crime, Thriller, Horror categories, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Whether you choose to experience it for the stellar performances from Dave McElhatton, Garry Goodrow, Michael Paul Chan or the visual majesty of its technical execution, Cardiac Arrest is a significant contribution to the cinema of 1980. It represents the kind of filmmaking that movieMx is proud to champion—original, bold, and ultimately, deeply human.
Where to Watch Cardiac Arrest Online?
Streaming HubParents Guide & Age Rating
Cardiac Arrest is rated PG. Parents should be aware that it contains frightening scenes, intense suspense, mature themes, violence. It is generally suitable for all ages.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 3.6/10, and global collection metrics, Cardiac Arrest stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1980 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cardiac Arrest movie hit or flop?
Cardiac Arrest is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 3.6/10 and lower collections.
Is Cardiac Arrest worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 3.6/10, Cardiac Arrest may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch Cardiac Arrest online?
Cardiac Arrest may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
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Synopsis
The "Missing Heart Murders" are plaguing San Francisco - dead bodies that turn up with their hears surgically removed! So a weak-stomached homicide cop looks into the possibilities of a black market for human organs, while across town a man must make a difficult decision regarding his wife, who needs a transplant...