Crisis
Performance & Direction: Crisis Review
Last updated: February 15, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Crisis (2021) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 6.3/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Thriller.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Thriller is often anchored by its ensemble, and Crisis features a noteworthy lineup led by Gary Oldman . Supported by the likes of Armie Hammer and Evangeline Lilly , 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: Crisis
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2021, Crisis is a Thriller, Crime, Drama film directed by Nicholas Jarecki. The narrative builds tension through unpredictable twists and keeps audiences guessing until the final reveal. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Gary Oldman.
Story Breakdown
The plot weaves a complex web of mystery and suspense. Three stories about the world of opioids collide: a drug trafficker arranges a multi-cartel Fentanyl smuggling operation between Canada and the U.S., an architect recovering from an OxyContin addiction tracks down the truth behind her son's involvement with narcotics, and a university professor battles unexpected revelations about his research employer, a drug company with deep government influence bringing a new "non-addictive" painkiller to market. Information is revealed strategically, keeping viewers engaged as they piece together clues alongside Gary Oldman. The narrative maintains momentum through well-timed revelations and unexpected turns.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The opening scene plants the seeds of mystery, introducing questions that will drive the narrative forward.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. Gary Oldman's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: All mysteries converge in a climax that recontextualizes earlier events and delivers satisfying answers.
Ending Explained: Crisis
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Nicholas Jarecki, Crisis concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to thriller resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes involving Gary Oldman, 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 thriller themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Crisis reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Crisis Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Crisis incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a thriller, crime, drama film directed by Nicholas Jarecki, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Gary Oldman'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: Crisis adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Crisis?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Thriller films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Gary Oldman or the director
- Want suspenseful moments and mystery
Box Office Collection: Crisis
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Worldwide Gross | $1.1M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Top Cast: Crisis
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch Crisis Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Amazon VideoCrisis Parents Guide & Age Rating
2021 AdvisoryWondering about Crisis age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Crisis is 118 minutes (1h 58m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.3/10, and global performance metrics, Crisis is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 2021 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Crisis worth watching?
Crisis is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Thriller movies. It has a verified rating of 6.3/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Crisis parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Crisis identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Crisis?
The total duration of Crisis is 118 minutes, which is approximately 1h 58m 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.
