Performance & Direction: Cube Review
Last updated: February 13, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Cube (1998) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 6.8/10. 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 Cube features a noteworthy lineup led by Nicole De Boer . Supported by the likes of Nicky Guadagni and Maurice Dean Wint , 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: Cube
Quick Plot Summary: Cube is a Thriller, Science Fiction, Mystery film that 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 and narrative structure.
Story Breakdown
The plot weaves a complex web of mystery and suspense. A group of strangers find themselves trapped in a maze-like prison. It soon becomes clear that each of them possesses the peculiar skills necessary to escape, if they don't wind up dead first. Information is revealed strategically, keeping viewers engaged as they piece together clues alongside the protagonist. 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. The arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: All mysteries converge in a climax that recontextualizes earlier events and delivers satisfying answers.
Thematic Depth
The film operates on multiple levels, using its genre framework to explore deeper themes about human nature, society, and the choices that define us.
What Works & What Doesn't
✅ Strengths
- Solid execution of genre conventions
- Engaging moments that showcase the creators' vision
- Competent performances from the cast
⚠️ Weaknesses
- Some narrative choices that feel predictable
- Occasional pacing lulls in the middle act
Ending Explained: Cube
Ending Breakdown: Cube 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, 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 Cube reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Cube?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Thriller films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of the cast or director
- Want suspenseful moments and mystery
Box Office Collection: Cube
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $257.9K |
| Worldwide Gross | $9.0M |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Cube Budget
The estimated production budget for Cube is $257.9K. 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: Cube
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Where to Watch Cube Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
Lionsgate Play
Lionsgate Play Apple TV Channel
Lionsgate Play Amazon Channel🎟️ Rent on
Amazon VideoCube Parents Guide & Age Rating
1998 AdvisoryWondering about Cube age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Cube is 90 minutes (1h 30m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.8/10, and global performance metrics, Cube is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 1998 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cube worth watching?
Cube is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Thriller movies. It has a verified rating of 6.8/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Cube parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Cube identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Cube?
The total duration of Cube is 90 minutes, which is approximately 1h 30m long.
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How Cube Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Cube
**Spoiler Alert** While Cube presents an intriguing premise of individuals trapped in a deadly maze, the execution leaves much to be desired. The film attempts to blend horror with existential themes, however it's lackluster the result is more confusing than thought-provoking. The lack of clarity regarding the Cube's purpose and the characters' motivations creates a narrative void that fails to engage the audience meaningfully. Instead of offering insightful commentary, it often feels like a series of contrived scenarios designed solely for shock value and being gory. The performances are generally subpar, with characters portrayed in exaggerated manners that detract from their believability. For instance, Quentin's descent into madness is depicted through over-the-top acting rather than nuanced character development. This makes it difficult for viewers to empathize with any of the characters, as they come across as unlikable or poorly developed archetypes rather than fully realized individuals which results in unstickable mediocre act. The film's reliance on mathematical concepts as a means of escape is both its unique selling point and its downfall. While the idea of using advanced mathematics to navigate the Cube is intriguing, it ultimately feels forced and unrealistic. The plot hinges on the assumption that a specific character possesses unique skills necessary for survival, which raises questions about fairness and logic within the narrative. This reliance on improbable scenarios leads to significant plot holes that undermine the overall tension and coherence of the story and popping more questions than giving answers to the ones that are already there. Perhaps most frustrating is the film's ending, which resolves the intricate buildup with a lackluster conclusion that feels like a betrayal of its earlier promise. After building tension through complex character dynamics and deadly traps, the resolution appears rushed and unsatisfying. The film ends without providing any real answers or closure, leaving viewers feeling cheated after investing their time in a convoluted journey of nothingness. In summary, Cube offers a fascinating concept but falters in execution, character development, and narrative coherence. Its potential as a thought-provoking horror film is squandered by poor acting and an unsatisfactory conclusion, making it difficult to recommend despite its cult status (Other ones are spectacular disasters in their own right, so it's best to just steer clear of them altogether).
Cube is a fascinating, low-budget sci-fi thriller that makes the most of its minimalist setup. The concept is simple but incredibly effective, a group of strangers trapped in a deadly maze of cube-shaped rooms. The movie thrives on its tension and psychological undertones, diving into how humans react under extreme pressure. It’s a smart, inventive film that doesn’t spoon-feed answers, leaving you to wrestle with its deeper themes about survival, human nature, and systems of control. While the traps and puzzles are memorable, the true focus is on the characters and how they clash as their desperation grows. That said, the film isn’t without its flaws. The constant use of tight close-ups and high focal lengths creates an almost unbearable sense of claustrophobia, but not always in a good way. At times, the cinematography feels disorienting and can pull you out of the moment. Combined with some uneven performances and occasionally stiff dialogue, these elements might not work for everyone. Still, Cube is a must-watch if you enjoy tense, thought-provoking thrillers that make you question everything by the time the credits roll. It’s the kind of movie that sticks with you, even if it leaves you a little shaken.
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.
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