Is Condemned! Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, Condemned! is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Action movies.
It features a runtime of 86 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Condemned! Review
Last updated: January 10, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1929, Condemned! enters the Action genre with a narrative focused on Suave thief Colman is sent to Devil's Island, where he becomes romantically involved with the wife of sadistic warden Digges. Under the direction of Wesley Ruggles, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Ronald Colman, Ann Harding, Louis Wolheim. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, Condemned! offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, Condemned! resonates with current cultural themes in the Action 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 January 2026, Condemned! is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US, UK, and India, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release. Don't miss the high-definition experience provided by premium large format (PLF) screenings.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of Condemned! centers on a unique premise within the Action landscape. Suave thief Colman is sent to Devil's Island, where he becomes romantically involved with the wife of sadistic warden Digges. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1929 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of Condemned! 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 Condemned! sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for Condemned! (1929): with an audience rating of 6.4/10, the reception has been divisive. It is a recommended for fans of Action, Drama, Thriller cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Condemned! Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $600,000 |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Condemned! Budget
The estimated production budget for Condemned! is $600,000. 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.
Cast of Condemned!
- Ronald Colman – Michel
- Ann Harding – Madame Vidal
- Louis Wolheim – Jacques Duval
- Dudley Digges – Jean Vidal
- William Elmer – Pierre
Top Highlights
Ronald ColmanMichel
Ann HardingMadame Vidal
Louis WolheimJacques Duval
Dudley DiggesJean Vidal
William ElmerPierre
Wilhelm von BrinckenVidal's Orderly
Albert KingsleyFelix
Constantine RomanoffBrute Convict
Harry GinsbergInmate
Bud SommersInmate
Parents Guide & Age Rating
Condemned! has not been officially rated yet. However, due to its genre classification (Action, Drama, Thriller), viewers should expect violence, action sequences, mature themes.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.4/10, and global collection metrics, Condemned! stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1929 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Condemned! movie hit or flop?
Condemned! has received mixed reviews with a 6.4/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Condemned! worth watching?
Condemned! is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Action, Drama, Thriller movies, but read reviews first.
What genre is Condemned!?
Condemned! is a Action, Drama, Thriller movie that Suave thief Colman is sent to Devil's Island, where he becomes romantically involved with the wife of sadistic warden Digges....
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Critic Reviews
Ronald Colman is "Michel", a debonair thief who ends up in prison on Devil's Island. Sandwiched between the shark-infested waters on one side and the bug-infested forest on then other, he is condemned to live out his days under the brutal custodianship of "Digges" (Jean Vidal), the prison warden. When he befriends Ann Harding, the put-upon wife of his nemesis, they begin to work on a daring plan to escape from their living hell. Though he was Oscar nominated for this, Colman doesn't yet have the glint in his eye that gave him star quality and so this is a bit of an unremarkable melodrama with cages and flies - but the quality of the production has held up well over it's 90 years and Wesley Ruggles keeps it all moving along nicely, if a little too predictably. If you do get an opportunity, give it a go.