Is Desperate Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Desperate is likely a skip if you enjoy Thriller movies.
It features a runtime of 70 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Desperate Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1987, Desperate enters the Thriller genre with a narrative focused on In this thinly-veiled, though uncredited, new version of Hemingway's "To Have and Have Not," here a prospective series pilot, an ex-sailor living in Key West, chartering out boats and struggling to forget his past, is lured into a dangerous rendezvous with Cuban gunrunners. Under the direction of Peter Markle, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from John Savage. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, Desperate offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, Desperate resonates with current cultural themes in the Thriller space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of early 2026, Desperate is available in theaters worldwide. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Prime and Apple TV roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of Desperate centers on a unique premise within the Thriller landscape. In this thinly-veiled, though uncredited, new version of Hemingway's "To Have and Have Not," here a prospective series pilot, an ex-sailor living in Key West, chartering out boats and struggling to forget his past, is lured into a dangerous rendezvous with Cuban gunrunners. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1987 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of Desperate has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a Desperate sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for Desperate (1987): with an audience rating of 0/10, the reception has been negative. It is a recommended for fans of Thriller, TV Movie cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
Desperate has not been officially rated yet. However, due to its genre classification (Thriller, TV Movie), viewers should expect mature themes, violence.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 0/10, and global collection metrics, Desperate stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1987 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Desperate movie hit or flop?
Desperate is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 0/10 and lower collections.
Is Desperate worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 0/10, Desperate may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch Desperate online?
Desperate may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is Desperate movie hit or flop?
Desperate is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 0/10 and lower collections.
Is Desperate worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 0/10, Desperate may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch Desperate online?
Desperate may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
What is the story of Desperate?
Desperate is a Thriller, TV Movie movie that follows: In this thinly-veiled, though uncredited, new version of Hemingway's "To Have and Have Not," here a prospective series pilot, an ex-sailor living in Key West, chartering out boats and struggling to fo...
Is Desperate family friendly?
Desperate falls under Thriller, TV Movie, which often contain intense scenes. Parental discretion is advised.
What language is Desperate available in?
Desperate is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Synopsis
In this thinly-veiled, though uncredited, new version of Hemingway's "To Have and Have Not," here a prospective series pilot, an ex-sailor living in Key West, chartering out boats and struggling to forget his past, is lured into a dangerous rendezvous with Cuban gunrunners.
Critic Reviews
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