Performance & Direction: Criminal Review
Last updated: February 28, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Criminal (1995) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.0/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Action.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Action is often anchored by its ensemble, and Criminal features a noteworthy lineup led by Nagarjuna Akkineni . Supported by the likes of Ramya Krishnan and Manisha Koirala , 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: Criminal
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1995, Criminal is a Action, Thriller, Crime, Drama film directed by Mahesh Bhatt. The narrative delivers highly intense sequences and pulse-pounding confrontations that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Nagarjuna Akkineni.
Ending Explained: Criminal
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Mahesh Bhatt, Criminal attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to action resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes involving Nagarjuna Akkineni, 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 action themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Criminal reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Criminal Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Criminal incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a action, thriller, crime, drama film directed by Mahesh Bhatt, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Nagarjuna Akkineni'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: Criminal adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Criminal?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Action films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Top Cast: Criminal
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Where to Watch Criminal Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Apple TV Store🏷️ Buy on
Apple TV StoreCriminal Parents Guide & Age Rating
1995 AdvisoryWondering about Criminal age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Criminal is 142 minutes (2h 22m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.0/10, and global performance metrics, Criminal is classified as a AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1995 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Criminal worth watching?
Criminal is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Action movies. It has a verified rating of 5/10 and stands as a AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Criminal parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Criminal identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Criminal?
The total duration of Criminal is 142 minutes, which is approximately 2h 22m 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.
