Criss Cross
Criss Cross Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict
Last updated: May 14, 2026
Movie Overview: Criss Cross
| Movie | Criss Cross |
| Release Year | 1949 |
| Director | Robert Siodmak |
| Genre | Crime / Thriller |
| Runtime | 88 minutes (1h 28m) |
| Language | EN |
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Criss Cross (1949) 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 & Character Study
The performances in Criss Cross are led by Burt Lancaster . The supporting cast, including Yvonne De Carlo and Dan Duryea , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.
movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?
What Works in the Movie
Criss Cross stands out as a strong entry in the Crime genre. The film benefits from engaging storytelling, memorable performances, and solid production values that help keep viewers invested.
- Compelling performances from the main cast
- Strong visual storytelling and direction
- Well-structured Crime narrative
- Satisfying emotional or dramatic payoff
What Doesn't Work
Despite its strengths, Criss Cross has a few issues that may affect the overall viewing experience, particularly in terms of pacing and narrative consistency.
- Uneven pacing in certain parts of the film
- Some predictable plot developments
- May not appeal to audiences outside the Crime fanbase
Story & Plot Summary: Criss Cross
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1949, Criss Cross is a Crime, Thriller film directed by Robert Siodmak, written by Daniel Fuchs. The narrative dives into the criminal underworld with a grounded sense of realism and complex morality. It provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Burt Lancaster as Steve Thompson.
Ending Explained: Criss Cross
Criss Cross Ending Explained: An armored-car guard must join a robbery after being caught with his ex-wife by her gangster husband. Directed by Robert Siodmak, this 1949 crime film stars Burt Lancaster (Steve Thompson), alongside Yvonne De Carlo as Anna, Dan Duryea as Slim Dundee, Stephen McNally as Det. Lt. Peter 'Pete' Ramirez. Rated 7.1/10 by audiences, the conclusion brings the story to a satisfying close.
What Happens at the End of Criss Cross?
An armored-car guard must join a robbery after being caught with his ex-wife by her gangster husband.
How Does Burt Lancaster (Steve Thompson)'s Story End?
- Burt Lancaster: Burt Lancaster's arc reaches a definitive conclusion by the final act, with Robert Siodmak delivering a resolution that feels earned after the film's 1h 28m runtime.
- Yvonne De Carlo (Anna): Yvonne De Carlo's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Dan Duryea (Slim Dundee): Dan Duryea's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of Criss Cross Mean?
The ending of Criss Cross ties together the narrative threads involving Burt Lancaster. Robert Siodmak chooses a conclusion that prioritizes thematic consistency over surprise, resulting in an ending that rewards viewers who engaged with the story's central themes.
Criss Cross Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Is Criss Cross Based on a True Story?
Yes, Criss Cross draws from real criminal cases and investigative records. Directed by Robert Siodmak and starring Burt Lancaster, this crime, thriller film explores how real events have been adapted into a dramatic narrative.
Real Story vs Movie Version of Criss Cross
The film balances factual inspiration with cinematic storytelling. Certain scenes are likely dramatized to enhance emotional impact.
Many viewers have praised the film for respecting the spirit of the real events.
Accuracy Assessment: Criss Cross uses real-life inspiration as the foundation for a dramatized narrative. The film prioritizes thematic storytelling over strict documentary accuracy.
Who Should Watch Criss Cross?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Crime films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Burt Lancaster or the director
- Want solid genre entertainment
At just 88 minutes, it's a quick watch.
Where to Watch Criss Cross Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Amazon VideoCriss Cross Parents Guide & Age Rating
1949 AdvisoryWondering about Criss Cross age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Criss Cross (1949) is 88 minutes (1h 28m). Directed by Robert Siodmak, the film runs for 88 minutes in its complete theatrical version.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 7.1/10, and global performance metrics, Criss Cross is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 1949 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Criss Cross worth watching?
Criss Cross 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 Criss Cross parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Criss Cross identifies it as NR. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the runtime of Criss Cross (1949)?
The runtime of Criss Cross (1949) is 88 minutes (approximately 1h 28m).
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.
