Control
Performance & Direction: Control Review
Last updated: February 20, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Control (2017) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 6.0/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Drama.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and Control features a noteworthy lineup led by Koen De Bouw . Supported by the likes of Werner De Smedt and Greg Timmermans , 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: Control
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2017, Control is a Drama, Crime, Thriller film directed by Jan Verheyen. The narrative explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Koen De Bouw.
Ending Explained: Control
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Jan Verheyen, Control concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to drama resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes involving Koen De Bouw, 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 drama themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Control reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Control Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Control incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a drama, crime, thriller film directed by Jan Verheyen, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Koen De Bouw'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: Control adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Control?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Drama films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Koen De Bouw or the director
- Want a character-driven story with emotional moments
Box Office Collection: Control
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $3.8M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Control Budget
The estimated production budget for Control is $3.8M. 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: Control
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch Control Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video
Apple TV Store
Google Play Movies
YouTube🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoApple TV StoreGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeControl Parents Guide & Age Rating
2017 AdvisoryWondering about Control age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Control is 126 minutes (2h 6m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.0/10, and global performance metrics, Control is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 2017 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Control worth watching?
Control is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 6/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Control parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Control identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Control?
The total duration of Control is 126 minutes, which is approximately 2h 6m long.
Best Movies to Watch if you liked Control
How Control Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Control
No reviews found for this filter.
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.
Useful Links
More with Koen De Bouw
View full filmography
Part of the Vincke & Verstuyft trilogy
Explore the full watch order, ratings, and collection details.
View Full Franchise