Empty Space Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict
Last updated: May 17, 2026
Movie Overview: Empty Space
| Movie | Empty Space |
| Release Year | 2017 |
| Director | James Choi |
| Genre | Drama |
| Runtime | 76 minutes (1h 16m) |
| Language | EN |
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Empty Space (2017) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 6.5/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Drama.
Cast & Character Study
The performances in Empty Space are led by Merrick Robison . The supporting cast, including Madysen Frances and Ryan David Heywood , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.
movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?
What Works in the Movie
Empty Space stands out as a strong entry in the Drama 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 Drama narrative
- Satisfying emotional or dramatic payoff
What Doesn't Work
Despite its strengths, Empty Space 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 Drama fanbase
Story & Plot Summary: Empty Space
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2017, Empty Space is a Drama film directed by James Choi, written by Paul Boring. The narrative explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. It provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Merrick Robison as Tom.
Ending Explained: Empty Space
Empty Space Ending Explained: Tom, an overweight young man, takes refuge at his grandmother's cabin in rural Illinois in an attempt to bury the years of being bullied and feeling rejected. Directed by James Choi, this 2017 drama film stars Merrick Robison (Tom), alongside Madysen Frances as Rebecca, Ryan David Heywood as Hank, Suzanne C. Johnson as Gladys. With a 6.5/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.
What Happens at the End of Empty Space?
Tom, an overweight young man, takes refuge at his grandmother's cabin in rural Illinois in an attempt to bury the years of being bullied and feeling rejected. While in town, he meets a precocious blind girl named Lilly, who shows him how to be accepted and loved.
James Choi's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Merrick Robison (Tom)'s journey. While in town, he meets a precocious blind girl named Lilly, who shows him how to be accepted and loved.
How Does Merrick Robison (Tom)'s Story End?
- Merrick Robison: Merrick Robison's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Madysen Frances (Rebecca): Madysen Frances's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Ryan David Heywood (Hank): Ryan David Heywood's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of Empty Space Mean?
Empty Space's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Merrick Robison may feel rushed. James Choi's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.
Empty Space Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Is Empty Space Based on a True Story?
No, Empty Space is a work of fiction. While the drama film directed by James Choi and starring Merrick Robison may incorporate realistic themes, the characters and plot are original creations.
Who Should Watch Empty Space?
Age Advisory: Rated Not Rated.
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Drama films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Merrick Robison or the director
- Want a character-driven story with emotional moments
At just 76 minutes, it's a quick watch.
Box Office Collection: Empty Space
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $8.0K |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Empty Space Budget
The estimated production budget for Empty Space is $8.0K. 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.
Where to Watch Empty Space Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
Amazon Prime Video
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Apple TV Store
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Amazon VideoFandango At HomeEmpty Space Parents Guide & Age Rating
2017 AdvisoryWondering about Empty Space age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Empty Space (2017) is 76 minutes (1h 16m). Directed by James Choi, the film runs for 76 minutes in its complete theatrical version.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.5/10, and global performance metrics, Empty Space is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 2017 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Empty Space worth watching?
Empty Space is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 6.5/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Empty Space parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Empty Space identifies it as Not Rated. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the runtime of Empty Space (2017)?
The runtime of Empty Space (2017) is 76 minutes (approximately 1h 16m).
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.