Cellular
Performance & Direction: Cellular Review
Last updated: February 15, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Cellular (2004) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 6.4/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Action.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Action is often anchored by its ensemble, and Cellular features a noteworthy lineup led by Kim Basinger . Supported by the likes of Chris Evans and Jason Statham , 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: Cellular
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2004, Cellular is a Action, Thriller, Drama, Crime film directed by David R. Ellis. The narrative delivers highly intense sequences and pulse-pounding confrontations that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Kim Basinger.
Story Breakdown
In this high-octane feature, David R. Ellis establishes a narrative structure that follows a classic action blueprint: establishing the protagonist's world, introducing a formidable antagonist, and escalating the stakes. A young man receives an emergency phone call on his cell phone from an older woman. She claims to have been kidnapped – and the kidnappers have targeted her husband and child next. The film balances spectacular set pieces with character moments for Kim Basinger, ensuring the action serves the story rather than overwhelming it.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The title opens with an explosive sequence that immediately establishes the stakes and introduces our protagonist in action.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. Kim Basinger's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The final confrontation delivers on the buildup, with stakes at their highest and the protagonist using everything they've learned.
Ending Explained: Cellular
Ending Breakdown: Directed by David R. Ellis, Cellular concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to action resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes involving Kim Basinger, 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 action themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Cellular reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Cellular Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Cellular incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a action, thriller, drama, crime film directed by David R. Ellis, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Kim Basinger'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: Cellular adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Cellular?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Action films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Kim Basinger or the director
- Want an adrenaline rush without demanding perfection
Box Office Collection: Cellular
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $25.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $57.7M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Cellular Budget
The estimated production budget for Cellular is $25.0M. 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: Cellular
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Where to Watch Cellular Online?
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Amazon VideoApple TV StoreGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeFandango At HomeCellular Parents Guide & Age Rating
2004 AdvisoryWondering about Cellular age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Cellular is 94 minutes (1h 34m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.4/10, and global performance metrics, Cellular is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 2004 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cellular worth watching?
Cellular is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Action movies. It has a verified rating of 6.4/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Cellular parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Cellular identifies it as PG-13. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Cellular?
The total duration of Cellular is 94 minutes, which is approximately 1h 34m long.
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Critic Reviews for Cellular
This could have been so very much better if only the story had not built the entire sense of jeopardy on three or four implausibly stupid strokes of misfortune. Chris Evans is the recipient of a strange phone call from a woman (Kim Basinger) who has been kidnapped and as she is locked in an attic, she must rely on this random young man to try stop the baddies (Jason Statham etc.) from now reaching her young son and her husband on their quest for we know not what... yet! He goes to the police station but a fracas in the lobby means he cannot discuss with a detective and so must now do it all by himself... There is plenty of action, Evans has some fun in a Porsche (borrowed from Rick Hoffmann - does he ever not play a pompous ass?!) before we are on the run from a load of don't know who to trust cops of all shapes and sizes (and loyalties). Evans is good value, and William H. Macy isn't afraid to get in tough with his inner vanity; but otherwise it is a bit of a wasted opportunity for all...
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.
