Is Cleaver Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Cleaver is likely a skip if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 17 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Cleaver Review
Last updated: January 13, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 2017, Cleaver emerges as a significant entry in the Drama, Thriller domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of "I chose to tell this story from the point of view of the Neighbour, not only because I find his perspective interesting when it comes to this issue, but also because the issue of domestic violence is so heavy and everyone has their own connotations towards it, which is why this film, for me, is not about domestic violence, but rather the influence of it. Unlike standard genre fare, Cleaver 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 Alexander McKenna, 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 Cleaver features a noteworthy lineup led by Kieran Charnock. Supported by the likes of Mike Minogue and George Baker, 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 Kieran Charnock, Mike Minogue, George Baker manages to keep the audience invested through the film's more predictable sequences. In the broader context of 2017 cinema, these performances stand as a testament to the evolving standards of acting within the Drama, Thriller space.
Directorial Vision & Technical Craftsmanship
From a technical perspective, Cleaver 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 Cleaver follows a sophisticated brisk pace. Over its 17 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, Cleaver 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 0/10 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, Cleaver is more than just its synopsis. It is an inquiry into the complexity of relationships. "I chose to tell this story from the point of view of the Neighbour, not only because I find his perspective interesting when it comes to this issue, but also because the issue of domestic violence is so heavy and everyone has their own connotations towards it, which is why this film, for me, is not about domestic violence, but rather the influence of it. This allows me to explore a whole range of emotions and feelings, and be able to show them with greater depth by taking us away from the direct environment in which this abuse takes place, and put us somewhere close enough to still reach out to it.
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 Cleaver (2017) is overwhelmingly negative. With an audience rating of 0/10 and strong performance metrics in the Drama, Thriller categories, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Whether you choose to experience it for the stellar performances from Kieran Charnock, Mike Minogue, George Baker or the visual majesty of its technical execution, Cleaver is a significant contribution to the cinema of 2017. It represents the kind of filmmaking that movieMx is proud to champion—original, bold, and ultimately, deeply human.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
Cleaver has not been officially rated yet. However, due to its genre classification (Drama, Thriller), viewers should expect mature themes, violence.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 0/10, and global collection metrics, Cleaver stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2017 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cleaver movie hit or flop?
Cleaver is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 0/10 and lower collections.
Is Cleaver worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 0/10, Cleaver may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch Cleaver online?
Cleaver 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
Synopsis
"I chose to tell this story from the point of view of the Neighbour, not only because I find his perspective interesting when it comes to this issue, but also because the issue of domestic violence is so heavy and everyone has their own connotations towards it, which is why this film, for me, is not about domestic violence, but rather the influence of it. This allows me to explore a whole range of emotions and feelings, and be able to show them with greater depth by taking us away from the direct environment in which this abuse takes place, and put us somewhere close enough to still reach out to it.