Is City in Fear Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, City in Fear is likely a skip if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 136 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
City in Fear Review
Last updated: January 12, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1980, City in Fear enters the Drama genre with a narrative focused on A psycho-on-the-loose story, about a burned-out newspaper columnist and his circulation-hungry publisher who wants him to turn the killer into Page One news. Under the direction of Alan Smithee, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from David Janssen. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, City in Fear offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. While the 4K mastering highlights the production value, the pacing during its 136-minute runtime can feel deliberate.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, City in Fear resonates with current cultural themes in the Drama space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of early 2026, City in Fear is available in theaters worldwide. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Prime and Apple TV roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of City in Fear centers on a unique premise within the Drama landscape. A psycho-on-the-loose story, about a burned-out newspaper columnist and his circulation-hungry publisher who wants him to turn the killer into Page One news. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1980 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of City in Fear has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a City in Fear sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for City in Fear (1980): with an audience rating of 5.1/10, the reception has been divisive. It is a recommended for fans of Drama, Thriller, TV Movie cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
City in Fear is rated NR. Parents should be aware that it contains mature themes, violence.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.1/10, and global collection metrics, City in Fear stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1980 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is City in Fear movie hit or flop?
City in Fear has received mixed reviews with a 5.1/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is City in Fear worth watching?
City in Fear is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama, Thriller, TV Movie movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch City in Fear online?
City in Fear 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.
Explore More Verdicts
More with David Janssen
View full filmography
People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is City in Fear movie hit or flop?
City in Fear has received mixed reviews with a 5.1/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is City in Fear worth watching?
City in Fear is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama, Thriller, TV Movie movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch City in Fear online?
City in Fear 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.
What is the story of City in Fear?
City in Fear is a Drama, Thriller, TV Movie movie that follows: A psycho-on-the-loose story, about a burned-out newspaper columnist and his circulation-hungry publisher who wants him to turn the killer into Page One news....
Is City in Fear family friendly?
City in Fear falls under Drama, Thriller, TV Movie, which often contain intense scenes. Parental discretion is advised.
What language is City in Fear available in?
City in Fear is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Synopsis
A psycho-on-the-loose story, about a burned-out newspaper columnist and his circulation-hungry publisher who wants him to turn the killer into Page One news.
Critic Reviews
No reviews found for this filter.