Crime Wave
Performance & Direction: Crime Wave Review
Last updated: February 16, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Crime Wave (1953) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 7.1/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Crime.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Crime is often anchored by its ensemble, and Crime Wave features a noteworthy lineup led by Sterling Hayden . Supported by the likes of Gene Nelson and Phyllis Kirk , 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: Crime Wave
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1953, Crime Wave is a Crime, Thriller film directed by André de Toth. The narrative dives into the criminal underworld with a grounded sense of realism and complex morality. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Sterling Hayden.
Ending Explained: Crime Wave
Ending Breakdown: Directed by André de Toth, Crime Wave resolves its central conflict while maintaining thematic consistency. The finale has been praised for its approach to crime resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes involving Sterling Hayden, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes with clear resolution of its central conflicts, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Main characters complete meaningful transformations, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the crime themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Crime Wave reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Crime Wave Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Crime Wave incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a crime, thriller film directed by André de Toth, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Sterling Hayden's character.
Historical Context
The film balances historical fidelity with cinematic storytelling. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
The production demonstrates respect for its source material, focusing on emotional truth over strict chronology.
Accuracy Assessment: Crime Wave adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Crime Wave?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Crime films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Sterling Hayden or the director
- Want solid genre entertainment
Top Cast: Crime Wave
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch Crime Wave Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
YouTube TV🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video
Apple TV Store
Google Play Movies
YouTube
Fandango At Home🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoApple TV StoreGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeFandango At HomeCrime Wave Parents Guide & Age Rating
1953 AdvisoryWondering about Crime Wave age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Crime Wave is 73 minutes (1h 13m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 7.1/10, and global performance metrics, Crime Wave is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 1953 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Crime Wave worth watching?
Crime Wave is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Crime movies. It has a verified rating of 7.1/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Crime Wave parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Crime Wave identifies it as NR. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Crime Wave?
The total duration of Crime Wave is 73 minutes, which is approximately 1h 13m long.
Best Movies to Watch if you liked Crime Wave
How Crime Wave Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Crime Wave
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.
