Crimewave
Performance & Direction: Crimewave Review
Last updated: February 20, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Crimewave (1985) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.5/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Comedy.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Comedy is often anchored by its ensemble, and Crimewave features a noteworthy lineup led by Reed Birney . Supported by the likes of Louise Lasser and Sheree J. Wilson , 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: Crimewave
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1985, Crimewave is a Comedy, Crime, Horror film directed by Sam Raimi. The narrative brings laughter through sharp writing and comedic timing, providing amusement while touching on deeper societal themes. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Reed Birney.
Ending Explained: Crimewave
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Sam Raimi, Crimewave attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to comedy resolution.
The conclusion addresses the core thematic questions involving Reed Birney, 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 comedy themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Crimewave reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Crimewave Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Crimewave incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a comedy, crime, horror film directed by Sam Raimi, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Reed Birney'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: Crimewave adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Crimewave?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Comedy films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Box Office Collection: Crimewave
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $3.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $5.1K |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Crimewave Budget
The estimated production budget for Crimewave is $3.0M. 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: Crimewave
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch Crimewave Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
fuboTV
MGM+ Amazon Channel
MGM Plus Roku Premium Channel
MGM Plus
PhiloCrimewave Parents Guide & Age Rating
1985 AdvisoryWondering about Crimewave age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Crimewave is 83 minutes (1h 23m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.5/10, and global performance metrics, Crimewave is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1985 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Crimewave worth watching?
Crimewave is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Comedy movies. It has a verified rating of 5.5/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Crimewave parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Crimewave identifies it as PG-13. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Crimewave?
The total duration of Crimewave is 83 minutes, which is approximately 1h 23m long.
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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.
