Desperate Measures
Performance & Direction: Desperate Measures Review
Last updated: February 16, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Desperate Measures (1998) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 6.0/10. 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 Desperate Measures features a noteworthy lineup led by Michael Keaton . Supported by the likes of Andy Garcia and Brian Cox , 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: Desperate Measures
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1998, Desperate Measures is a Action, Drama, Thriller, Crime film directed by Barbet Schroeder. 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 Michael Keaton.
Ending Explained: Desperate Measures
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Barbet Schroeder, Desperate Measures concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to action resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes involving Michael Keaton, 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 Desperate Measures reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Desperate Measures Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Desperate Measures incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a action, drama, thriller, crime film directed by Barbet Schroeder, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Michael Keaton'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: Desperate Measures adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Desperate Measures?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Action films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Michael Keaton or the director
- Want an adrenaline rush without demanding perfection
Box Office Collection: Desperate Measures
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $50.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $13.8M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Desperate Measures Budget
The estimated production budget for Desperate Measures is $50.0M. 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: Desperate Measures
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Where to Watch Desperate Measures Online?
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Apple TV StoreDesperate Measures Parents Guide & Age Rating
1998 AdvisoryWondering about Desperate Measures age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Desperate Measures is 100 minutes (1h 40m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.0/10, and global performance metrics, Desperate Measures is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1998 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Desperate Measures worth watching?
Desperate Measures is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Action movies. It has a verified rating of 6/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Desperate Measures parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Desperate Measures identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Desperate Measures?
The total duration of Desperate Measures is 100 minutes, which is approximately 1h 40m 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.
