Is Contraband Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, Contraband is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Thriller movies.
It features a runtime of 91 minutes and offers a solid storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Contraband Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1940, Contraband enters the Thriller genre with a narrative focused on During early World War II, a Danish sea captain, delayed in a British port, tangles with German spies. Under the direction of Michael Powell, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Conrad Veidt. The chemistry between the leads drives the emotional core of the movie, making the stakes feel genuine.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, Contraband 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, Contraband resonates with current cultural themes in the Thriller space. It effectively mirrors local sentiment while maintaining a global appeal, a rare feat in recent releases.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of early 2026, Contraband 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 Contraband centers on a unique premise within the Thriller landscape. During early World War II, a Danish sea captain, delayed in a British port, tangles with German spies. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1940 cinema will find satisfying and robust.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of Contraband has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the triumph of the protagonist over internal conflicts. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a Contraband sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for Contraband (1940): with an audience rating of 7.1/10, the reception has been generally positive. It is a must-watch for fans of Thriller, War cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Contraband Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $40,000 |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Contraband Budget
The estimated production budget for Contraband is $40,000. 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.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
Contraband is rated NR. Parents should be aware that it contains violence, action sequences, mature themes.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 7.1/10, and global collection metrics, Contraband stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1940 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Contraband movie hit or flop?
Contraband is considered a hit based on audience response and box office performance. With a rating of 7.1/10, it's highly recommended for fans of Thriller, War movies.
Is Contraband worth watching?
Yes, Contraband is definitely worth watching! It's a must-watch hit for fans of Thriller, War cinema.
Where can I watch Contraband online?
Contraband 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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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is Contraband movie hit or flop?
Contraband is considered a hit based on audience response and box office performance. With a rating of 7.1/10, it's highly recommended for fans of Thriller, War movies.
Is Contraband worth watching?
Yes, Contraband is definitely worth watching! It's a must-watch hit for fans of Thriller, War cinema.
Where can I watch Contraband online?
Contraband 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 Contraband?
Contraband is a Thriller, War movie that follows: During early World War II, a Danish sea captain, delayed in a British port, tangles with German spies....
Is Contraband family friendly?
Contraband falls under Thriller, War, which often contain intense scenes. Parental discretion is advised.
What language is Contraband available in?
Contraband is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Synopsis
During early World War II, a Danish sea captain, delayed in a British port, tangles with German spies.
Critic Reviews
When Conrad Veidt's Danish freighter is routinely stopped by the Royal Navy in search of contraband; he is held over for 24 hours. He manages to get hold of two shore passes for himself and his first mate, but they are stolen and as he investigates, he encounters Valerie Hobson, the mysterious "Mrs. Sorensen" and soon is embroiled in a top secret Nazi espionage conspiracy. Just as with "the Spy in Black" (1939) the two stars gel well, Weidt has a sort of suave, debonair style about him that complements his stylish co-star well and the writing gives ample opportunity for some humour as the gently suspenseful, if maybe just a tad too contrived, mystery moves along. Set at the start of WWII, the storyline lacks some of the more sinister aspects of later British-made war films, and much of the style and pace of the story still depicts an optimism that the conflict would be short-lived.